There are a lot of good suggestions postd by other members; here are my two cents worth.
First off, I recommend a revolver. A revolver provides you with less chance for malfunctions (failure to feed, fire, extract and eject as you can have with a semi auto).
Smith and Wesson makes a very nice line of small, J-Frame revolvers. I carry a model 38 S&W as a back up weapon on duty and as personal protection off duty.
The J-Frame Smith and Wessons are easily concealable (you should have no problem carrying this weapon with a "in the waist band" holster and, your wife could easily conceal it in her purse).
As far as ballistics (I am sure some people out there still think a .38 caliber is not sufficient to complete the task)shot placement is more important than caliber. You can shoot a person with a 9mm or .45 caliber several times and they will stay in the fight if the round does not hit the "upper hydraulics" of your target.
Make sure you go to a gun dealer and gt a feel for whatever gun it is before you buy. Remember, you are buying a weapon for personal protection, not fashion or style so, buy the right tool for the job.
