[rfuerst911sc]

First off just that you are asking here is a good start it means you have an open mind which I believe is critical for purchasing a gun. Second you need to find a local pistol range. It may be intimidating the first couple of times you and your wife go there but each time try to rent at least two different pistols. You will reach a point where the intimidation is mostly gone and NOW you two can hone in on what type of pistol you BOTH want. Basically your going to choose between a revolver and a semi-automatic. Beyond that you are now into what brand, what caliber, what accessories etc. it opens up an endless avenue of money that can be spent. I may be different than others but I started with a semi auto and slowly moved to revolvers. I like the simplicity of a revolver, when you pull the trigger it goes bang. Really nothing to jamb and no fumbling with a safety. That can be good or bad. Safety in the home regardless if there are children or not is paramount.........it's part of being a responsible gun owner ! Regardless of what you end up with you need to practice......practice......practice......until you can basically shoot it in your sleep. Why ? Hopefully you will NEVER need it for home protection but if you do the odds are it will be in the night. So you and the wife are sound asleep and then you hear a window or door being smashed/broken. So you are barely awake and your mind is racing on what to do. One of you grabs a phone to call 911 the other grabs the gun. You have no idea where the perp is or if there are more than one. In that situation you do NOT want to be wondering how to operate the weapon.
Enough of the drama go out and find a good weapon, fire it often and enjoy. It can be a regular Sat./Sunday event for you and the wife to go to the range for an hour or two. If you go semi auto I'd recommend 9MM if you go revolver then .357 because you can shoot cheaper .38 through a .357 . Good luck and be safe.