I really like this article, very well written. I'm a woman and my dad recently gave me a handgun for my birthday, S&W shield 9mm, so I totally have been the recipient of a firearm. My semi auto is great for my smaller hands. I wasn't too comfortable with it so I signed up for a ladies only defensive handgun class & my confidence has soared. If I'm going to own a gun, I'm going to know how to use it and be responsible. The noise & recoil did startle me at first but the more I've practiced, the less I notice it. I plan on taking more classes and if someone breaks in to my home or threatens my family, I will know how to use my weapon. I feel good about that.