I do not frequent THF, so I thought I would ask here....what is your opinion on best handgun to own for concealed carry, with only two factors being considered?

1) safest operation
2) ease of use

Thanks, in advance, for your opinions.

Okie

Think it depends on how you want to carry it. Pocket or small of back are probably the most common.

Very individual decision. I suggest you decide which carry method works best for you, and then go to a gun store to discuss with those that know best.

I use a OTW paddle holster. Started with ITW. Didn�t like it. Now that I�ve lost 40lbs, may go back and try the ITW.

1) Safest Operation: I am guessing you are wanting a manual external safety? If so, The S&W M&P Shield is the best selling carry size pistol we sell in our store that has a thumb safety option. It has all the internal safeties most others have as well.

2) Ease of Use: Either a Glock or Hammerless Revolver. Just point and shoot.

My biggest suggestion, don't buy based on someone else's suggestions. Get out there and shoot everything you can get your hands on. Don't just hold them in a store, go somewhere you can rent them and shoot all of them. Carry what you have the most confidence in. I went through 4 different pistols and numerous different holsters for each before finally finding the setup that worked best for me. A Glock 19 in a small kydex IWB holster appendix carried.

Oh, and if you plan on trying any IWB holsters, go buy jeans that are a size or two bigger than what you normally wear. If you try it with a good fitting pair, you will always hate it.

Those two factors are completely dependent on how much you practice with it. With that said it's the one you practice with enough to know how to use safely and effectively.

Everything else is subjective.

Let's say pocket for where I want to carry it.

Lady Smith .38 caliber revolver

In pocket, Glock 42 or bigger pocket Glock 43.

Ruger LCP

Yep. Or the smaller Remington RM380. I know a place that is going to have them pretty darn cheap here pretty soon...

I like a Bersa Thunder 380.

Excellent choice and congrats on the weight loss LFF

I already own a S&W .38 revolver with hammer. Too big of gun to carry, correct?

I carry OWB with either a Ruger LC9s or an XDs .45ACP . I either wear a coat to cover or I wear shirts outside that are long enough to carry without problems of being seen . A new amendment to CCW/CHL laws protect me just incase my shirt accidently rides up and exposes my weapon and as long as I have my CHL on my body i'm covered . If it exposes by accident and some person calls the cops and claiming man with a gun all I do is show my CHL/TLC and i'm covered .

BTW what was mentioned above about IWB (Inside Waist Belt) carrying , it's good advice on buying larger jeans/pants to accommodate the needed space for a IWB holster . Otherwise I agree you'll hate it and it might keep you from carrying . I tried it and hated it , bought OWB holsters no problems .