The problem with semi automatic pistols is the gun has to be cocked by racking the slide - in moments of stress this isn't good for a woman who has less grip strength than a man by a lot. The only sacrifice is the number of rounds.

OR JUST HAVE A MODERN PISTOL WITH A ROUND CHAMBERED AND BE TRAINED ENOUGH TO NOT ND YOUR OWN LEG OR CROTCH. BECAUSE BAD GUYS ARE ALMOST CERTAINLY GOING TO OUTGUN THE AVERAGE SMOKE WAGON ENJOYOOR.

I would try this, but 9mm is not a must can go lighter.

I went this route w a Charter Arms Pitbull 9mm. tho I think for dedicated home defense a shotgun is where it's at