AboutDoug Little Expertise I can answer questions relating to Legal Concealed Carry in most of the Western US, with detailed knowledge of Concealed Carry laws in Arizona.
I have an in-depth understanding of tactical and defensive handgun skills including Close Range Gunfighting, Armed Vehicle Operations, Low Light Gunfighting and Advanced Concealed Carry techniques.
I can answer detailed questions regarding Firearms Safety, Gun Handling and Marksmanship techniques. I can also answer detailed questions in the area of Crime Prevention and Victim Avoidance.
***PLEASE NOTE: Despite having done so in the past, I cannot continue to answer questions about valuation of firearms of any kind or questions regarding when a gun was made or what the impact of age or condition might be on the value of any firearm, either contemporary or antique.***
Experience NRA Training Counselor, NRA instructor for Personal Protection in the Home, Home Firearms Safety, Basic Pistol and Refuse to be a Victim disciplines. Certified by the AZ Dept. of Public Safety as a Firearms Safety Instructor for AZ Concealed Weapons Permit Classes and AZ Unarmed and Armed Security Guard Training. Instructor in both Low Light Gunfighting and Close Range Gunfighting. Staff instructor for Suarez International. I am a multiple graduate of Gunsite Academy and hold a certificate of Armed Vehicle Operations from them. I have been instructing in Arizona professionally for the past 5 years and have over 20 years shooting experience. Certified by the International Society of Crime Prevention Practioners as a Crime Prevention Specialist.
Organizations National Rifle Association, Life Member; International Society of Crime Prevention Practioners; International Defensive Pistol Association; Arizona State Rifle and Pistol Association; Association of Police Marksman; President, US Marshals Posse - District of Arizona
Education/Credentials BS, Political Science, Appalachian State University;
Suarez International - Low Light Instructor,
Suarez International - Close Range Gunfighting Instructor,
Gunsite Academy - Armed Vehicle Operations,
Arizona Department of Public Safety - Firearms Safety Instructor,
NRA Instructor Ratings in Personal Protection in Home, Home Firearms Safety and Basic Pistol,
ASP Tactical Baton Instructor,
ASP Tactical Handcuff Instructor.
Past/Present Clients Please visit my website for testimonials at http://www.armedpersonaldefense.com
Question I have just completed my CHL training and am looking to acquire two pistols, one for myself and one for my wife(home). I am thinking in the .380 and .40 calibers. Since we both have small hands. I was seeking assistance in which manufacturers make the smaller framed weapons. Being retired USAF my budget is limited so the best "BANG for the Buck" is paramount. I have a Dickson "Detective Special" 32ACP, purchased 40 years ago that has started to malfunction that I hope to repair but want a bit more STOP.Thank you.
Answer Harold,
Sorry about the delay in getting back to you. I was traveling and didn't have good internet access.
As far as selecting a pistol, there are a couple of considerations. Certainly whether it fits your hand is one of the most important. You or your wife should be able to reach all of the controls on the gun without changing your hand position. You will need to try a couple of pistols to see how they fit you.
In terms of caliber, I'd probably point you at 9mm instead of .380. It has better stopping power and is gives you a much broader selection of guns to choose from. In addition, the bullet size on the .380 and 9mm are the same, the cartridge is just a little longer.
I'd take a good look at the Springfield XD. They are available in 9mm and .40 caliber. They are highly reliable, well constructed guns that can be had for a very good price. You can pick up and XD for between $450 and $475 if you shop around. They have a lot of nice features on them as well like a chamber loaded indicator and grip safety. They are available in full size, compact and subcompact models. A Glock 26 in 9mm or a Glock 27 in .40 would both be good choices as well, if they fit your hand.
