[Groesbeck Hurricane]

I'm the type of person who likes old school.

Have you and your wife ever shot anything?

What is the ultimate purpose of the spoon? (Home defense)

Do you have a primary or back-up plan? (Standard poodles, breed originally was working dogs and a well bred animal will provide primary protection or at the least a warning, this will deter MOST intruders)

Are you in an area that allows for concealed/open carry, are you planning on carrying?

Hearing protection is a good thought, ALWAYS wear it when practicing. You will not have the chance to put it on in an emergency, you will also not notice the noise until AFTER the situation is over and you notice your ears are ringing. Such is life.

IF one of you is scared of the kick you will NOT want to use the tool. Of course, in an emergency situation you will not notice the kick at the time.

Shotguns can be a fine choice however they can be hard to get around a corner and are easier to take away from you.

Semi-auto handguns are all the rage. They may or may not be your best choice. Most people, not all but most, are less accurate with the semi-auto and tend to throw lead around in an emergency. They are also prone to more malfunctions though many will say they are not.

Revolvers are most reliable. You can also search out options for revolvers with shot rounds. The .357 can shoot either the magnums or .38 special (including +P). There is a rather interesting shot round in .38 special that does a nice close spread and will put a person down.

Do not believe all the hype about larger is better. You are not hunting elephants. The lowly .22LR round can permanently ruin a person's day. A .30 caliber will go through an engine block. A 9mm FMJ can travel through your walls, but so can many other calibers.

Take your wife down and shoot several options. If you provide the ammo some people will allow you to try theirs out. From my experience, limited though it is, most women prefer to start off with the .38 special in either a larger or .357 frame. Less kick and they can be deadly accurate. Make sure the frame fits her hands as well as yours!