Lots of good quality, moderately priced stuff out there. Remember that a good revolver is better than bad semi. Rugers, Taurus, Bersa, Keltec are all good value. I've never heard anything good about Hipoint except that they are cheap. Go to a dealer that you know and buy a good used piece. You should be able to pick up good quality for $200-300 easily.
If you want a good home defense rifle you can't beat an SKS for about $200.
I'm sure you can pick up a good 12 ga. pump for that price.