Finding the right firearm

Weapon Wisdom • Firearms

Tiny Guns, Big Mistakes: Finding the Right Firearm for YOU

By Jamie Anderson • Feb 14

Let’s talk about one of the most common gun counter experiences women have: you walk in, and before you finish your sentence, someone is already reaching for the tiniest, cutest pistol in the case because it’s “perfect for a woman.”

It looks like it belongs in a clutch next to your lipstick. It’s small, sparkly, and easy to hide — and that sales pitch can sound really convincing. But here’s the truth: when it comes to firearms, small doesn’t always mean easier or safer to shoot.

Why “cute and tiny” can be harder to control

Smaller guns usually mean less grip area, less weight, and less material to help manage recoil. All that force has to go somewhere — and it often goes straight into your hands and wrists.

  • They can feel “snappy” and unpleasant to shoot.
  • You may struggle to get a solid, consistent grip.
  • Follow-up shots are slower because you’re constantly fighting the recoil.

If a gun is painful or intimidating to shoot, you’re less likely to train with it — and that’s the opposite of what we want for your safety.

What actually matters when choosing your firearm

Instead of starting with “How small can it be?”, start with:

  • Fit: Can you get a full, secure grip? Does it feel stable in your hand?
  • Control: Can you manage the recoil and get back on target quickly?
  • Confidence: Do you feel capable and in control when you press the trigger?
  • Training: Are you willing to practice with it regularly?

The “right gun” is the one you can run well, not just the one that disappears easily into a purse or waistband.

You don’t have to figure it out alone

At Weapon Brand, we offer something most shops don’t: we’ll actually go to the gun store with you.

Our instructors aren’t earning a commission or trying to move a specific model. We’re there to:

  • Help you compare different sizes and calibers.
  • Explain what to look for in a defensive firearm.
  • Make sure you’re not pressured into something that isn’t right for you.

Think of us as your firearm-shopping best friend — the one who knows what all the specs actually mean and has zero interest in you buying a gun you’ll hate shooting.

This Valentine’s Day, choose the right match

Whether you’re celebrating with someone, flying solo, or happily in-between, your safety is non-negotiable. You deserve a firearm that fits you, supports your training, and helps you feel genuinely empowered — not just accessorized.

You may or may not fall in love this February, but you can absolutely find a solid, reliable partner in steel — and learn how to handle it with skill and respect.

Because when it comes to your safety, it’s not about the smallest, cutest option. It’s about the one that helps you get home.

— Jamie Anderson