I do not mean to offend, so if you do not like guns, please ignore this post and read no further. I grew up with guns, and I love to shoot. I have close friends who hate guns. I respect everyone's right to an opinion. I am just looking for advice since I hike alone almost exclusively.

I don't worry about animals. I do want some protection in case I run into a person of ill intent. I do know this is a rare occurrence.

I want something lightweight and easy to carry. I am looking for recommendations on the type of gun, and ALSO recommendations on holsters/how you carry while hiking. Most comfortable set-up for movement.

I am looking at a Ruger LCP .380. Any thoughts before I purchase appreciated. I plan to buy next week.

Doubles as a drinking straw to save weight.

I understand the desire to have protection from other people, though the odds are very minimal of encountering a person of ill repute.

Do you carry or have carried a gun on a regular basis before? If not, then I suggest once you have a gun purchased and the gear to go with it, to go to a firing range and get real comfortable with it. Go multiple times to develop the muscle memory needed to easily flip off the safety.

As far as recommendations, I can only say what I carry. Bear spray.

If you really are set on getting a gun, my recommendation would be for a .22 pistol. Yeah, it's small caliber, and won't drop a target with one shot, but it's lightweight, easy to aim, doesn't have serious kickback so you can aim it faster and more accurately after shooting, and it is relativity cheap. If you can find it, get it in stainless steel as there will be less maintenance involved.

I grew up with guns. In the rural areas, when I was growing up, everyone had guns in the house. When I was six, I had my first gun to shoot pop cans with my Dad. (I know in the city they mean something different, and I respect everyone's opinion on this issue. I can see both perspectives on the issue. )

In my opinion, as a woman....it levels the playing field, maybe. : ). I have run into maybe 2-3 people that were cagey in a lifetime of hiking. So, I don't ever intend on using it. I just want it in case. And, I am only carrying it when I hike solo. And, I like to shoot for fun at a range.

Anyway, if anyone else is interested....I went with the Ruger LCP .380. I am really happy with it! I think it is perfect for this situation. It is lightweight, easy to carry, and easy to shoot. More than likely, it will never leave my holster. : ) Except at the range! :)

I too went with .380 simply because it's the smallest gun I own, so the easiest to carry. In 2020 I was harassed by a couple guys in front of my campsite. That night, in fear that they may return, I was glad to have the extra protection.

I'm sorry that bullshit has happened to you.

Thanks for the follow-up on which one you purchased. I might look into that as well. Like you, Portage99, I grew up in rural MN and grew up with guns.