(05-14-2022, 09:17 PM)ChiefD Wrote: I have been talking to my Dad a lot lately, regarding buying a gun. My Dad, like me, considers himself a liberal, but also like me, is a strong proponent of the Second Amendment. He has a very nice firearm, and subscribes to Guns N Ammo magazine. Due to some events in my neighborhood, I feel I need to get a gun strictly for self defense. If someone tries to break into my home, I don’t want to be helpless. 

I have never shot a gun in my life. I’ve always been kind of afraid of them. I don’t know why this is, it just is. So I’m totally a beginner when it comes to this. I’m looking for something that fits in my purse, and maybe has a laser sight. It can be small caliber, something easy to point and shoot. I am willing to pursue training, and know I would need to do this anyway, as I would like to get a concealed carry permit. Wisconsin allows that, as long as you go to a class.

I’m also looking for something where I could customize it. As a retired Navy Chief, I want to get a khaki colored gun with a Chief anchor on it. As far as price, as long as I can find something like this for under $1,000, that would be fine.

I heard it’s more difficult to get guns and ammo. That worries me. I think maybe the gun laws have become too strict lately. It will get to the point where the only people who have guns will be criminals. That sure doesn’t sound liberal. Perhaps I am becoming more centrist/independent. I know people hate independents too. Oh well. Any advice?

Quote:Specs
SKU 163690
Model Model 640
Caliber 357 Magnum, 38 S&W SPECIAL +P
Capacity 5
Length 6.6
Front Sight Black Blade
Rear Sight Fixed
Action Double Action Only
Grip Synthetic
Cylinder Material Stainless Steel
Barrel Material Stainless Steel
Frame Material Stainless Steel
Frame Finish Satin Stainless
Barrel Length 2.125" (5.4 cm)
Weight 22.1 oz.
State Compliance CA,MA

MSRP: $ 795.00

Quote:Smith & Wesson J-Frame revolvers have had your back since 1950.  These small revolvers were designed to fire a full power round and are as simple and easy to use as they are reliable.  Available in various calibers and with three diverse hammer designs, it is no surprise that the Smith & Wesson J-Frame has become the most popular, small-frame, defense revolver on the market.
The Model 640, is a variation of the Model 40 Centennial that integrates the time-tested features of the original with modern advancements.  The Model 640 is a small-frame, concealed-hammer revolver that packs a full-sized punch.

• Stainless steel frame, barrel and cylinder
• Black Blade Front Sight and Fixed Rear Sight
• Snag-Free enclosed hammer
• Rated for continuous +P Use

ALL BACKED BY OUR SMITH & WESSON LIFETIME SERVICE POLICY.
Availability subject to applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations, and ordinances.

(05-14-2022, 09:17 PM)ChiefD Wrote: If someone tries to break into my home, I don’t want to be helpless. 

(05-14-2022, 09:17 PM)ChiefD Wrote: I’m looking for something that fits in my purse, and maybe has a laser sight.

(05-14-2022, 11:24 PM)Snarl Wrote:

(05-14-2022, 09:17 PM)ChiefD Wrote: If someone tries to break into my home, I don’t want to be helpless. 

(05-14-2022, 09:17 PM)ChiefD Wrote: I’m looking for something that fits in my purse, and maybe has a laser sight.

Follow OmegaLogos advice.

If you want a customized gun, you might want to consider a 1911.

You don't want to carry in a purse.  That's a target.  Before you can react, you'll be struggling/fighting with the bad guy for your firearm.

Consider a fanny pack like this one.  I carry a Glock 23 in there all the time.  The S&W 640 is in my front right pocket.

(05-14-2022, 09:17 PM)ChiefD Wrote: I have been talking to my Dad a lot lately, regarding buying a gun. My Dad, like me, considers himself a liberal, but also like me, is a strong proponent of the Second Amendment. He has a very nice firearm, and subscribes to Guns N Ammo magazine. Due to some events in my neighborhood, I feel I need to get a gun strictly for self defense. If someone tries to break into my home, I don’t want to be helpless. 

I have never shot a gun in my life. I’ve always been kind of afraid of them. I don’t know why this is, it just is. So I’m totally a beginner when it comes to this. I’m looking for something that fits in my purse, and maybe has a laser sight. It can be small caliber, something easy to point and shoot. I am willing to pursue training, and know I would need to do this anyway, as I would like to get a concealed carry permit. Wisconsin allows that, as long as you go to a class.

I’m also looking for something where I could customize it. As a retired Navy Chief, I want to get a khaki colored gun with a Chief anchor on it. As far as price, as long as I can find something like this for under $1,000, that would be fine.

I heard it’s more difficult to get guns and ammo. That worries me. I think maybe the gun laws have become too strict lately. It will get to the point where the only people who have guns will be criminals. That sure doesn’t sound liberal. Perhaps I am becoming more centrist/independent. I know people hate independents too. Oh well. Any advice?

(05-15-2022, 03:00 AM)Brotherman Wrote:

(05-14-2022, 09:17 PM)ChiefD Wrote: I have been talking to my Dad a lot lately, regarding buying a gun. My Dad, like me, considers himself a liberal, but also like me, is a strong proponent of the Second Amendment. He has a very nice firearm, and subscribes to Guns N Ammo magazine. Due to some events in my neighborhood, I feel I need to get a gun strictly for self defense. If someone tries to break into my home, I don’t want to be helpless. 

I have never shot a gun in my life. I’ve always been kind of afraid of them. I don’t know why this is, it just is. So I’m totally a beginner when it comes to this. I’m looking for something that fits in my purse, and maybe has a laser sight. It can be small caliber, something easy to point and shoot. I am willing to pursue training, and know I would need to do this anyway, as I would like to get a concealed carry permit. Wisconsin allows that, as long as you go to a class.

I’m also looking for something where I could customize it. As a retired Navy Chief, I want to get a khaki colored gun with a Chief anchor on it. As far as price, as long as I can find something like this for under $1,000, that would be fine.

I heard it’s more difficult to get guns and ammo. That worries me. I think maybe the gun laws have become too strict lately. It will get to the point where the only people who have guns will be criminals. That sure doesn’t sound liberal. Perhaps I am becoming more centrist/independent. I know people hate independents too. Oh well. Any advice?

You should just get a nasty ass badger.

YOU SEE GUYS GIVE THESE WIMMINS THE RIGHT TO VOTE AND DRIVE CARS AND SHIT NOW THEY WANT GUNS 

Im jk My girls compact is a tauras pt911 its metal on metal but light weight and fits her hand very well especially with a 15 +1 capacity. She can nail shit with it too, she put some down range up close and mid distance. I think you should go to a range you can rent a pistol and find out which ones you are comfy with. 
Otherwise you should be big mom boss and just shoulder strap a 12 gauge when walking your dog or just start beating the fuck out of people like the annoying merchandiser news paper guy to send the message that your not to be fucked with =D

(05-15-2022, 03:46 AM)senona Wrote: I myself have one that Kdog was describing, a Ruger Security 9 after much debate and with help from them.

So glad I did, love it!!


Having said that tho, I kinda knew what I wanted, just not the brand
(a 9mm like my husband's Browning)


I was able to hold different ones and that alone I was able to eliminate a few, due to I did not like the feel of them in my hand.




I do agree with Sky's suggestion of going to a shooting range and letting them have you test a few out if they offer that, to see what you are most comfortable with. 

Get the feel of their 'kick' or lack of, whether you want a revolver type or pistol




The main thing is to be comfortable handling any kind of gun you decide to go with.

(05-15-2022, 03:07 AM)MisterSpock Wrote:

(05-15-2022, 03:00 AM)Brotherman Wrote:

(05-14-2022, 09:17 PM)ChiefD Wrote: I have been talking to my Dad a lot lately, regarding buying a gun. My Dad, like me, considers himself a liberal, but also like me, is a strong proponent of the Second Amendment. He has a very nice firearm, and subscribes to Guns N Ammo magazine. Due to some events in my neighborhood, I feel I need to get a gun strictly for self defense. If someone tries to break into my home, I don’t want to be helpless. 

I have never shot a gun in my life. I’ve always been kind of afraid of them. I don’t know why this is, it just is. So I’m totally a beginner when it comes to this. I’m looking for something that fits in my purse, and maybe has a laser sight. It can be small caliber, something easy to point and shoot. I am willing to pursue training, and know I would need to do this anyway, as I would like to get a concealed carry permit. Wisconsin allows that, as long as you go to a class.

I’m also looking for something where I could customize it. As a retired Navy Chief, I want to get a khaki colored gun with a Chief anchor on it. As far as price, as long as I can find something like this for under $1,000, that would be fine.

I heard it’s more difficult to get guns and ammo. That worries me. I think maybe the gun laws have become too strict lately. It will get to the point where the only people who have guns will be criminals. That sure doesn’t sound liberal. Perhaps I am becoming more centrist/independent. I know people hate independents too. Oh well. Any advice?

You should just get a nasty ass badger.

YOU SEE GUYS GIVE THESE WIMMINS THE RIGHT TO VOTE AND DRIVE CARS AND SHIT NOW THEY WANT GUNS 

Im jk My girls compact is a tauras pt911 its metal on metal but light weight and fits her hand very well especially with a 15 +1 capacity. She can nail shit with it too, she put some down range up close and mid distance. I think you should go to a range you can rent a pistol and find out which ones you are comfy with. 
Otherwise you should be big mom boss and just shoulder strap a 12 gauge when walking your dog or just start beating the fuck out of people like the annoying merchandiser news paper guy to send the message that your not to be fucked with =D

I second your first suggestion.

I believe they are marketed as "The Franklenator"

(05-15-2022, 02:18 AM)MisterSpock Wrote: I'm more curious about how you become a Navy chief and manage to never fire a gun.

(05-15-2022, 04:49 AM)ChiefD Wrote: Thanks for all the replies and great advice! There is a shooting range near me, and I will try some different guns out. Noted on not carrying it in my purse. My Mom used to have a gun. I’ll ask her where she carried it. 

Yeah, I heard about recoil from a friend of mine. That scares me a little. I imagine it would take me some time to get comfortable with that. 

@"Brotherman" OMG, I’m picturing myself walking down the street with a nasty ass badger and a 12 gauge now, haha! Someone else on my street is the neighborhood wack job, actually the neighbor who shares a wall with me. I live in a fourplex condo on the first floor. The woman is nuts, and I’ve already had one confrontation with her. There are rumors she has a gun and used it on her ex boyfriend. I want to be able to show her I am not to be fucked with. The whole neighborhood knows she’s dealing drugs out of her condo, and she’s had the cops over there several times.

(05-15-2022, 04:49 AM)ChiefD Wrote: Thanks for all the replies and great advice! There is a shooting range near me, and I will try some different guns out. Noted on not carrying it in my purse. My Mom used to have a gun. I’ll ask her where she carried it. 

(05-15-2022, 04:49 AM)ChiefD Wrote: Thanks for all the replies and great advice! There is a shooting range near me, and I will try some different guns out. Noted on not carrying it in my purse. My Mom used to have a gun. I’ll ask her where she carried it. 

Yeah, I heard about recoil from a friend of mine. That scares me a little. I imagine it would take me some time to get comfortable with that. 

@"Brotherman" OMG, I’m picturing myself walking down the street with a nasty ass badger and a 12 gauge now, haha! Someone else on my street is the neighborhood wack job, actually the neighbor who shares a wall with me. I live in a fourplex condo on the first floor. The woman is nuts, and I’ve already had one confrontation with her. There are rumors she has a gun and used it on her ex boyfriend. I want to be able to show her I am not to be fucked with. The whole neighborhood knows she’s dealing drugs out of her condo, and she’s had the cops over there several times.

(05-15-2022, 03:56 AM)Brotherman Wrote:

(05-15-2022, 03:46 AM)senona Wrote: I myself have one that Kdog was describing, a Ruger Security 9 after much debate and with help from them.

So glad I did, love it!!


Having said that tho, I kinda knew what I wanted, just not the brand
(a 9mm like my husband's Browning)


I was able to hold different ones and that alone I was able to eliminate a few, due to I did not like the feel of them in my hand.




I do agree with Sky's suggestion of going to a shooting range and letting them have you test a few out if they offer that, to see what you are most comfortable with. 

Get the feel of their 'kick' or lack of, whether you want a revolver type or pistol




The main thing is to be comfortable handling any kind of gun you decide to go with.

I wouldn't have guesed you were snarky at the other place but I still think it would be hot if chief rolled down the block with a badger on a leash shouldering a 12 gauge