ORIGINAL: ranwin33
I'm looking for a semi-auto handgun for my daughter. She IS NOT a shooter but has shown an interest in joining me at the range. I'm considering both the 40sw and 9mm. I'm concerned about recoil for her - as she's a new shooter I don't want something with heavy recoil that may discourage her. I would also like something big enough to take out the ocassional dog running deer on my property. Any recommendations?
Recommendations? Yes - forget the semi-auto pistol, and go with a good double action revolver. I'd suggest one chambered to 357magnum, but start out shooting 38Specials. Target wadcutters would be a good starting point. She can progess to more powerful loads as she becomes accustomed to shooting, and can handle them. It'll also serve well for those dogs - without the temptation (hopefully) to spray & pray as I've seen some do with
high capacity pistols.
A good revolver will likely outlast many pistols, and the manual of arms is much simpler. Later, if she wants a pistol, she can always trade it for one.