Unless there is some urgent need to get a gun, take your time.
While this page is intended for women, it has lots of valuable information for anyone. http://www.corneredcat.com/
As has been mentioned getting some classes under your belt before you choose a gun is a good idea. Some begining classes let you try out a variety of guns.
You might also consider getting a used .22 pistol of some sort before you buy a concealed carry piece.
They let you fire many rounds down range for not too much money. The experience you get from practicing with a .22 is easily transferable to a centerfire handgun.
Don't get too caught up in picking a cartridge. imho it is much more important that you pick a gun that fits your hand.
Just one word of caution, I am not comfortable shooting guns that weigh less than 20oz. for more than a few shots.
While a light gun is easier to carry they can be a chore to shoot and it follows that you might not practice with it as much as you should.
While this page is intended for women, it has lots of valuable information for anyone. http://www.corneredcat.com/
As has been mentioned getting some classes under your belt before you choose a gun is a good idea. Some begining classes let you try out a variety of guns.
You might also consider getting a used .22 pistol of some sort before you buy a concealed carry piece.
They let you fire many rounds down range for not too much money. The experience you get from practicing with a .22 is easily transferable to a centerfire handgun.
Don't get too caught up in picking a cartridge. imho it is much more important that you pick a gun that fits your hand.
Just one word of caution, I am not comfortable shooting guns that weigh less than 20oz. for more than a few shots.
While a light gun is easier to carry they can be a chore to shoot and it follows that you might not practice with it as much as you should.