Practice-
22's are like over grown BB guns. Fun to shot but don't get you prepared for the shock of a 9mm or especially a 45.
In Semi-Automatics-
9mm are cheap on ammo, good for target practice, and a good middle ground gun.
40cal or better for stopping power. I'm partial to 45's.
In Revolvers
357 or 44mag are the only way to go. And they are more relieable and easy to use than a semi auto. i.e. you don't have to think as much especially with dual action.
If you wife has any interest, train her. Shooting is lots of fun and most women aren't as scared of them after they've been to the range and learned the basics. My mother went 180 on them after going to the range with my dad once. And my girlie can't wait for me to take her. 9mm is about the biggest a woman can be comfortable with.
-Andy
