Pistol for my wife 9mm compact or 380

[Skycruiser]

If small, concealable, carry and .380 are what it needs to be then the Ruger LCP or even the Kel-Tec P-3AT fit the bill.
But rember, these guns are designed to be carried with the chamber empty, especially if carried inside a purse.

Not true at all. My daughter and I both carry the Kel-Tecs. Their double-action makes them completely safe for loaded carry. I can't recommend a pistol more highly because of its size, concealability, ease-of-use, low-recoil and incredible value. We both have pocket holsters that make them easy to carry, which makes it MUCH more likely that we'll have it when we need it. Take a look at them before you decide to purchase anything.

[Buckmark]

Huh, well stright from Ruger themselves.
Ruger has received a small number of reports from the field indicating that LCP pistols can discharge when dropped onto a hard surface with a round in the chamber. We are firmly committed to safety and would like to retrofit all older LCP Pistols. The retrofit involves installation of an upgraded hammer mechanism at no charge to the customer.

 
We want to remind gun users that, for maximum safety when carrying any pistol with a loaded magazine in place, the chamber should be empty, and the slide should be closed. Any gun may fire if dropped or struck.

[Skycruiser]

these guns are designed to be carried with the chamber empty

My disagreement lies with the words above. Double-action autos (at least those which aren't defective and requiring a retrofit) are NOT designed to be carried with the chamber empty, any more than double-action revolvers are designed to have an empty chamber under the hammer.

The "for maximum safety" disclaimer keeps the product liability lawyers happy but is not actionable in actual use.

At least not for Kel-Tec owners.

[Buckmark]

I am sorry, i ment they "should" be carried for maximum safety rolling around inside a purse.
I know i said "designed" which was incorrect.
Carried correctly, they are completly safe and easy to operate..
Sorry skycruiser, i typed without thinking..

[Phantom Gobbler]

Was checking out the new SA XDm 3.8 in 9mm at DJs in Bothell, and the action seems fairly stiff for some users.  The gun does feel good and balances well, so I am looking forward to shooting one soon.  Some folks are thinking that the shorter barrel should have resulted in a shorter grip, but it comes with a 19 round clip!      

It's unique shape has resulted in the nick name the "Hairdryer" on some blogs!  

Springfield XDM 3.8 Compact Handgun

[ADAMS]

"It's unique shape has resulted in the nick name the "Hairdryer" on some blogs!"

The XD has a high bore axis compared to its standard bearing competition, Glock.

[mountainman]

I sell more Ruger LCR's to women looking for a defensive handgun. Lightweight, plus-p, great grip, no hammer, and one of the best (lightest) DA trigger pulls out there! Sweet when a Crimson trace is added! You really need to get several different guns in her hands. Fit-important! Functionality (in her hands)-important! Aesthetics-VERY important! LOL