Women, particularly women who live alone, must make self-defense a top priority—while facing a unique set of self-defense challenges. One important thing a woman can do to protect herself is to own a gun, and learn how to use it safely. However, purchasing a gun should involve time and research – every gun is a unique investment, and requires an informed decision-making process.

Some of the best guns for women living alone are listed below.

Ruger LC 93s

Compact size, slender body and light weight make this 9 mm pistol a popular choice for women. This sidearm is easy to use and very concealable, with a low profile and weighing in just over a pound. Its magazine capacity holds seven cartridges, so with one in the chamber you’ll have eight shots.

Ruger LCR

This lightweight, polymer-framed revolver offers rounded edges to enhance your ability to conceal it. Available in a range of calibers from .22 LR to the powerful .357 Magnum, Ruger’s LCR offers a chambering for every skill level. Depending on the caliber, the Ruger LCR’s cylinder capacity is from five to eight cartridges, and the weight varies from 13 ounces to a pound. Beginning shooters should be aware that lightweight revolvers do tend to offer greater perceived recoil than semi-automatics and heavier-framed revolvers.

Kahr CW9

Kahr’s CW9 is a terrific gun for women, not only because of its user–friendliness, but also for its concealability. Its slender grips and single-stack magazine make it easy for small hands to grasp. Additionally, the magazine capacity is seven rounds with the option to carry another in the chamber.

Glock 43

This is one of the smallest handguns that Glock has introduced, so it fits perfectly into the generally smaller hands of women, and is easily concealable. This small handgun is a 9 mm and has a six-round magazine capacity.

Sig Sauer P238

At about 15 ounces, this semi-automatic dynamo chambered in .380 ACP offers both convenience of carry and a remarkably comfortable shooting experience for such a light weight. With a six-round magazine capacity, it offers one fewer shot than some of the options we’ve listed, but for many shooters this gun’s supreme concealability more than makes up for that.

S&W M&P Bodyguard

The Bodyguard revolver has a synthetic grip, which reduces perceived recoil considerably. Moreover, it provides ease when aiming in reduced lighting situations, making it one of the best guns for women living alone.

KEL-TEC PMR-30

The KEL-TEC PMR-30 is a dream come true for beginners, as it provides ease and accuracy in a compact, lightweight package. It has everything you need to be a perfect shot.

Smith & Wesson M&P Shield

This 9 mm delivers craftsmanship and reliability in abundance. It is small enough to be easily concealed yet provides a good grip. It has a 7- to 8-round capacity and is also available chambered in .40 caliber.

Piece of Advice

The good news is that there are so many firearms perfect for women’s self-defense…but the “bad” news is that not all women want or need the same thing. When you’re looking for a gun, you’ll need to consider your own skill set, budget and interest. What’s most critical is that you find a firearm that you’re comfortable using to train and practice to ensure that you can deploy it safely and effectively should you ever need to. Lastly, make sure that you are aware of all the laws pertaining to defensive firearm use in your state or district.