My dad is ridiculously into guns. Hes owned everything under the sun and although hes been downsizing lately, he keeps a few around for specific purposes. If he does any traveling, he carries a .38 snub nose special (the short barreled revolvers you see cops carry in older movies). It packs a decent punch and is compact. They are a common gun and dont have anything fancy on them since youre not "into guns." Since they are common, you can get many accessoeris for them to suit your needs. You can get different holsters that fit your travelling needs. My dad has a pocket holster, a hidden belt holster for working, but usually carries it in a fanny pack with a few extra rounds. A benefit is that your old lady should be able to use it as well if the need arose. My uber frail mother has shot it numerous times without issues.