I have lots of experience with firearms. The gun will be for self protection but it won’t be concealed. I have always liked semi’s but am a bit leery of their reliability... Is this even a valid concern?
Thanks for the replies everyone!
+1 on the 1911 in .45, but I’d also suggest the Beretta PX4. I’ve got one in 9mm (around $550). It’s never failed to shoot and everybody who tries it loves it (including gun snobs). It fits like a glove and it’s good looking to boot.
Otherwise I’m partial to Sigs, but they’re more expensive. The Springfield Armory XDM series has a good reputation, they’re in your price range, and they’re not as ugly as Glocks.
Guns are tools, but I also think they can be works of art too.
As another poster said Glock, HK, Beretta, Sig are all top brands that would be fine choices.
So many brands and styles I think you really have to decide on a few key questions before you make a selection.
Metal or Polymer? To my eye polymers tend to be ugly things. I am not a Glock fan - but there are few handguns that can take more abuse or perform better in a non-pristine state.
Semi-auto or revolver? A good quality, well lubed semi should not present any significant reliability issues. I clean and lube my guns THOROUGHLY after each use.
Caliber? 9mm is very popular - and generally what I would suggest. If single shot man-stopping power is important then a .45 is a great choice. The 9mm will be cheaper to shoot, and without practice caliber may be a moot point.
Personally I like Beretta's.
For a polymer the PX4 Storm is a nice looking handgun:
I use a 92 FS Inox ($650 in black, $750 for Inox):
Seriously?
You’re thinking of the wrong guns. Everyone’s first gun should be a .22 rifle or pistol, preferable the rifle.
Ruger’s Mark II .22 pistol is one of the most reliable and favorite of the line. The 10-22 rifle can’t be beat.