Thanks for the suggestions, everyone!

Some general information for those who asked, and for those who might ask in the future:

I'm 5'8" and 180lbs. Stocky, heavy bone structure, huge hands (4" of palm from wrist to bottom of pointer, 3" of pointer). No dainty lass, I. So think of a gun that can be held by a German man who's about 6'...that's the kind of handle size I need.

However, a shoulder injury doesn't allow me to do any high stress activities with my dominant hand. My upper arm and back muscles can compensate for a few instances of recoil and whatnot, but after that my shoulder start complaining in a big way (I shot a couple of years ago with several gun, which is how I found this out...a .44 magnum was pretty much a no-go). So something I can practice with a lot (i.e. wouldn't hurt me too badly) would be good, in addition to being something that will be easy to carry (I do intend to get my CCW license). I intend to take whatever gun I purchase to the range to get really comfortable with it so that when it comes time to actually use it (god forbid), it won't be an issue.

I've heard a lot of talk about S&W, and several people have mentioned Glock. For someone who likes to wear jeans and tee shirts, and isn't a skirt-lover (if it has pockets and legs, I'll wear it), which guns should I be on the lookout for that would be easy to conceal in these types of outfits without having to get a holster? I'd prefer to carry in-pocket, if possible.

I'm trying to get ideas as to easily-concealed guns so that I can practice with these types to narrow my field of choice even further. I do NOT intend to purchase a gun without first practicing with it quite a bit to make sure that it's going to be comfortable for me, due to my shoulder.


I realize that, when it comes down to it, recoil isn't going to be a huge deal after a while, but if I can't even shoot a gun enough times to get used to the recoil because of my shoulder, then it's just not going to work.


I'm getting the idea that the Ruger SP101 is a great gun for in-home security, but is not easily concealed. Fair enough. So any other suggestions for easily-concealed guns (aside from the ones that have been suggested...I'm making a list to take to an actual gun shop, not a sporting goods store) would be more than welcome. Revolver or cartridge, doesn't much matter to me. I can load and shoot both, and I plan to take a class, anyway, so I will become accustomed to whatever comes my way.


Again, thanks to you all who've commented so far, and thanks to Tam and Say Uncle! for the referrals. I really appreciate any and all help I can get in this area, so that I'm prepared as possible (i.e. don't look like a total n00b) when I get going on this route.

I've been looking at Cornered Cat, as well, and have found valuable information on grip and whatnot.


Thanks again! :-)