My wife (5') carries a Taurus Model 85 (38 Spl/5 round revolver) when she feels the need. It's light and fits well in her purse. It's my carry of choice when we travel too. I keep a few other 38's too, because they're simple and the ammo is cheap. Like others have said, practice is the most important aspect of ownership. We each fire at least 100 rounds at the range every year and would prefer to do more if our schedules permitted.