I tried to sell my GF a GLOCK 42 for Christmas. After safety checking the gun, we discovered that racking the slide was a major issue. Due to her diminutive size and a recoil spring stiffer than James Bond’s martini, Rhonda found that racking the 42’s slide reliably and effectively meant turning the gun sideways, bringing the gun into her body and pushing the frame down as she pulled the slide back. To do that on a gun range safely — keeping the muzzle pointed downrange — she’d have to turn her body sideways as well. And, of course, keep her finger off the trigger. And then there was the problem with . . .
the slide stop. Rhonda’s left handed; the 42’s fiddly little slide stop lives on the left side. So locking back the slide required more finger finagling. In fact, she had to switch hands.
To do that on a range, well, I’ve watched inexperienced, poorly trained people at gun ranges trying to clear their semi-automatic firearm. The muzzle goes everywhere. Racking hand in front of the muzzle? Seen it. Finger on the trigger? That too.
Long story short, we ditched the 42. Rhonda bought a Ruger LCR (a TTAG five-star gun). It’s much safer – at least until she gets to grips with an easier-to-use semi, and master the manual of arms. She’s saving up for the bigger, badder Walthar PPQ, with its ambidextrous slide stop and easy racking slide.
Other suggestions? And whaddayathink? Revolvers for newbies?