i have a few questions.

[savage.270]

My mom told me today the she wants to get a gun. Im on board with the idea cuz i will be moving out in a couple years. She has never really shot a gun. I told her before we even consider i want to get her some time on the range and let her get comfortable with a weapon. Im thinkin the marksman on canyon would be a nice place to go for the gun safety course. And they also have guns for you to shoot. Ive never really had any experience with this place and was wonderin how it is? How are their selection. Now she mostly wants the gun for home defense and i already own a 12 gauge. But i also brought up that she should never rule concealed carry out. What if something happens down the road and she feels safer with the gun in her possession every where she goes. Now on the to the pistol. I look at some sigs & smith and Wessons. Also some rugers but what really caught my eye was the bersa thunder .380. I liked the mag capacity. Read a few reviews and it doesnt seem to jam up. The weight seem nice too appose to the ruger. So whatdya think?

[Wazukie]

I would suggest reading through this thread http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,116496.0.html[/url][/url] , lots of good info.  I am in the camp that a good revolver is best for a first time shooter.  Just my opinion though.  I do have a little .380, Taurus, in I can tell you that it does have a bite to it when you shoot it.  I shoot it a lot though and I am used to the bite.

[savage.270]

Lots of good info there. Thanks for the tip

[Arnbo]

I would suggest that you and Mom contact your local shooting range and take a course
 And get familiar in a nice safe setting.Just my worth
Ess 

[Slingeroflead]

The Marksman has a nice selection of guns to rent. You can try any of their rental guns all day long for $10. You can change as often as you like. If you go on a Wednesday the rental is free.

Two things to know though:
When you first go there, they put you through a safety orientation which is $10. (Good idea IMHO)
Also you have to buy their ammo for the rental guns.

Before I bought my pistol in 9mm. I tried out every 9mm they had in the case, which is several. Then bought the one that I shot best. I would recommend you do the same for your Mom.

The gun I "liked" because of looks and the one I shot the best were different guns.

[savage.270]

Thanks slinger. Thay was my main question

[jyerxa]

I think the Marksman is a very good place. I have always had good conversation when I'm there. My son go's there more than I do. Be sure to take your mom and think of it as shopping. Women love shopping right? So get her asking her own questions with the guys and start shooting.  Sounds like fun! Have a great time.