I turned 70 this summer, and although I am an educated, responsible, licensed gun owner of nearly 50 years now, I know that many our age are not. The world is a much harder and rougher place than we have known for many years. The government is no help and with an increasingly liberal society preaching to defund the police many of us depend on the 2nd Amendment, the bedrock of our country's history. I am not going to regurgitate or debate anyone's particular agenda or belief system, but we have worked so hard to be where we are, why should we have to fear losing it to those who have no respect for the law or values our country has abided by for 247 years. This is not an easy subject to broach, and as such, if you are not comfortable with it, then I ask you to move on. RESPECT.
There are many things to consider when thinking about a firearm for home protection past let's say, the age of 60, but it certainly applies to younger folks as well. I am going to try to address most of these as well as provide a list of possible choices.
Remember that all these considerations should be tailored for each individual. Women and men should each try to find a firearm that meet their own individual needs. Let your lady to decide her own comfort and satisfaction. I have known several men who decided singlehandedly what their lady should use, buying it only to discover that they when they use it they are not comfortable with it. Take your lady with you and let her do the shopping fit and feel. Better yet, find a range where she can test several weapons/calibers herself. My wife has enjoyed her Smith & Wesson Model 3914 9mm for nearly 30 years now. It is compact at 6", lightweight at 25 ounces, provides 339-foot pounds of knockdown power and the cost was $525. Unfortunately, it is no longer made, but the picture helps with comparison and fit.
One of the most important factors is the size and weight of the gun. Seniors often have weaker hand strength and may struggle with a heavy gun or one too large to hold comfortably. They should opt for a lightweight gun that is easy to handle.
Another important consideration is the type of grip. A gun with a comfortable grip will help prevent hand fatigue and reduce the risk of accidental discharge. A grip that is too small or too large can also make it difficult to control the gun. Seniors should look for a gun that has a grip that fits their hand comfortably and provides a firm hold.
Sights are also an important feature to consider. As we age, our eyesight can deteriorate, making it harder to aim accurately. A handgun with high-visibility sights can help seniors to aim more accurately and confidently. Additionally, a gun with the ability to install optics can be helpful for seniors who suffer from poor eyesight.
Finally, the handgun should have minimal recoil, which can cause discomfort and make it harder to control the firearm. The top calibers for reduced recoil are .22 LR, .380 ACP, and 9mm.
Overall, seniors should prioritize comfort, safety, and ease of use when choosing a handgun. By considering these important features, they can select a gun that will provide them with the protection they need without sacrificing comfort or safety. Confidence is key here.
First of all, I will not recommend a self-defense rifle or shotgun; no ARs, no Mossberg 590s or Berretta 1301 Tactical weapons. I will not recommend revolvers in the 357 mag or 44 mag calibers. I recommend a simple semi-auto handgun.
My personal recommendations
Walther CCP M2 Auto
Initially known as the personal choice of James Bond 007, this gun has a well-deserved reputation for reliability. This is the first polymer pistol with Softcoil gas technology. This technology improves the user’s experience by reducing overall felt recoil and allowing the slide to be easily manipulated regardless of hand strength. The grip is very comfortable. This gun is available in several colors.
A quality made German weapon, this gun holds 8 rounds and weighs in at just over 1 pound empty. It has a trigger pull of 5.5 pounds which is on the reasonable scale for comfort. Dimensions are 6.4 by 5.1". Cost for this weapon is $449. CCP M2 + | Black | A Walther Arms Concealed Carry Firearm
Smith & Wesson MP Shield 380 Auto
Another American weapon in the compact concealed carry group, this one is also ergonomically designed for the smaller hand size and grip. Perfect size for nightstand or carry, or a day at the range. It is thin and lightweight - can be comfortably carried all day.
This weapon also holds 8 rounds and weighs in again at a 'smidge' over 1 pound. It has a trigger pull of 5 pounds, again reasonable. Dimensions for this gun are 6 .7 by 5". This weapon sells for $454. M&P® 380 SHIELD EZ® | Smith & Wesson (smith-wesson.com)
Sig Sauer P238 380 Auto
This Swiss made sub-compact single-action pistol has a 6-round magazine capacity and the SIGLITE® Night Sights are removable and adjustable for windage. It has fluted polymer grips and black metal finish. It has a 6-round magazine, weighs only 15 ounces, a 5.5 lb trigger pull, and is 5.5" by 3.9". It retails for $569. SIG P238 - 1911 Inspired Micro-Compact Pistol Series 380auto (sigsauer.com)
Kimber Micro 380 Auto
American made, this weapon comes in seven different models: stainless steel and color/grip combos. It has steel sights, a 7 round mag, low profile tritium night sights, and a 7 lb trigger pull, a bit on the heavy side. This weapon is a remarkably light 13.4 ounces and 4" by 5.6". It is priced on the high side at $713. Kimber America | Kimber Pistols - Micro
Glock 42 380 Auto
This is the smallest Glock pistol available. 5.94" by 4.13", this is another in Austrian gun maker Glock's fine line of pistols. Light at 15 ounces FULLY LOADED, it has a safe action system, 6 round mag, and an 8 lb. trigger pull. The pistol retails at $419.
All the weapons here are in the 380 ACP caliber. The .380 ACP, with a handful of individual exceptions, is a subsonic round. Most bullet weights range between 75 and 95 grains. The Federal .380 ACP full metal jacket round weighs 95 grains, hits with the force of 203 foot-pounds at the muzzle and moves at 980 feet per second. The advantage to .380 ACP is not power or velocity, but lighter recoil. Remember these weapons would most easily suit older folks looking for a weapon to defend themselves and their property, but do not enjoy guns for other purposes.
Finally, and MOST IMPORTANTLY, seek out a qualified range and instructor whereas to test your gun and loads. I would recommend shooting at no further than 15 yards. Most self-defense situations occur well within this range. Choose the combination with which you are most comfortable. Learn the laws in your state and locality. Take the training and get your Concealed Permit and keep it current. This protects you, your handgun, and your family/property against all possible liability or action. Lastly, keep it close/handy/locked. Remember, you are not the criminal. I pray none of us ever has to use it.
"Self Defense is not just a set of techniques; it’s a State Of Mind, and it begins with the belief that you are worth defending."
Rorion Gracie
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