I need it before I take my class to get for my ccw later this month.
I have experience with larger guns and knowledge of them, these small ones are new to me though.
The 380 autos have become very popular since they are easy to hide and carry and have more knockdown than a 32.
Luger and KelTec both make a reasonably priced small auto.
The Springfield XDS is a very good compact gun, I carry one in 45, but it is much larger than the 380's.
First decisions:
1. What is your max/comfortable weight that you will actually carry?
2. What is you max-comfortable recoil? This relates to cartridge and pistol weight. Heavier pistols can shoot larger loads with similar recoil.
2. Revolver or semi-auto? There are revolvers with hidden hammers.
3. Cartridge?
No one can tell you which one is best for you. You should try as many as possible at a local gun range that rents pistols. One general rule is to shoot the largest cartridge that you can reach a comfort level, up to a 45 ACP in semi-autos, and a 357 mag in revolvers. From what you've said about your experience level, I think that you could probably handle a compact 9x19mm or a 38 special 5-shot, that rules out a 380 ACP to me.
Here are a few stories to help give perspective on when a larger handgun is useful, and when a smaller one can still get some jobs done. I still like 22 mags, and would never sell a 22 LR short of being used in a defensive role. If you look at bullet "proof" vests, a 22 mag can be rated along with a 44 mag; it won't blow people off their feet, but it will often penetrate very well. When people get blown off their feet, they often get separated from their weapon. Thus recommendation to go larger when possible, but this also opposes concealment. So, it's still your balancing choice of the trade offs.
Handgun Stopping Power, Calibers and Loads by Chuck Hawks
http://www.chuckhawks.com/handgun_stoppi...
The truth about “stopping power” – Anatomy First (people)
http://www.breachbangclear.com/the-truth... effectiveness: cavitation, penetration, hydrostatic shock, caliber; one-shot stops
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Handgun_eff...
Concealed Carry Pistols
http://www.chuckhawks.com/concealed_pistols.htm
Mossad & .22 for defense/escape, C.E. “Ed” Harris
http://shilohtv.com/?p=3574
Moro fighters, drug free, proving .38 Colt and 9mm insufficient sidearm, .45 Colt was. 12 gauge preferred
http://www.morolandhistory.com/Related%20Articles/Legend%20of%20.45.htm
The .380 ACP Sucks" by Nutnfancy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZEmF430-buc
Conceal 12oz Pistols
http://www.humanevents.com/2011/01/04/12-concealed-carry-guns-12-ounces-or-less/
I like Ruger and having more than a trigger safety.
Ladies Conceal Carry Options - Guns & Holsters
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiMQIYIDVC4
Concealed Carry Holsters & Outfits for Women
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ogGBPVk5GQk
Hope these help. Take care and shoot safe.
Ruger makes a light weight .357 revolver with a shrouded hammer. Using .38 caliber rounds makes this pistol about the best on the market for a self defense firearm... point and shoot. At five to ten feet that's all you need.
Walther Pk
How small are you looking to go?
