My girlfriend just told me she wants to get a gun to keep in her nightstand for when I'm not around. She got a gun pulled out on her over a year ago walking down the street in a very upscale neighborhood at 7 PM by a guy on parole, and the trial is still pending, but that's a whole other story. I'm not sure what to set her up with so I'd appreciate some suggestions. We live in San Francisco so a concealed weapon permit is not an option. She hasn't shot much, but I plan on taking her to the range and getting her real comfortable with whatever she gets obviously. I'm leaning toward a S & W 38 special. I know a shotgun is perfect for a chick alone but I really think for us a revolver in a nightstand next to her is a better option. Thoughts?