Hey, fellas—
After about 6 months of consideration, the opportunity arose to take a CCW class for $50 through a LivingSocial deal and I sprung on it. I've only ever worked with .22s, paintball, and run thousands of BBs through various BB guns (some of the best times I've ever had). I'd ideally like to have two handguns (I'll explain why) and wanted some thoughts.
1) Springfield XDm 9MM
2) Ruger LCP (also looking at its revolver counterpart)
After a lot of research, the XDm seems like the perfect fit. Plenty of safety features, strong reputation, 16+1 and 19+1 mags, and reliable. I was originally researching the Sig 226, but the safety features of the XDm and the ability to determine if there's a round in the chamber in the dark sold me. It will likely visit the range on a regular basis, and other than that stay in a safe in a nightstand drawer with the occasional carry.
The purpose of the Ruger LCP is that it's smaller, less moving parts, reliable, and inexpensive. Ideally a great weapon to carry, travel with, and keep in the car. Additionally, my fiancée would love to never have to fire a gun, but would be able to if necessary. I'd like to own a firearm that's simple, easy to use (point and shoot), and is small enough to hold in her hands.
I was just hoping for feedback on my thoughts/research, especially considering the Ruger LCP. It's only $300, and it seems that (like most things) you get what you pay for, so the fact that it's already cheap, and then that it's on sale worries me. I may be way off there since the reviews on it are all outstanding, but I thought it would be a smart move to solicit other opinions.
Thanks for your help, guys.