My standard recommendation for someone who wants a handgun for home defense, but isn’t particularly “into” guns: Ruger GP100 4” barrel .357 Magnum revolver(or similar revolver)
It’s simple to operate and gives you a wide range of options for ammo. You can shoot everything from powderpuff 38 Special range or target ammo to 38 Special +P defensive ammo
to high powered 357 magnum ammo.
Nothing wrong with 9mm if you’re interested in a semi-auto. I’d suggest checking out the Ruger SR9, Springfield XDM9, or the Smith & Wesson M&P 9 models with a thumb safety. Can’t say I’m a fan of semi-autos that have a relatively light trigger pull and only have a trigger safety for a beginner. Here’s a photo of a competition shooter with “glock leg”(some of his t-shirt got into his holster when he holstered the pistol and pulled the trigger when he moved) http://myweb.cableone.net/uziforme/gsw.jpg
FWIW, I have semi-autos from 22LR to 45ACP and revolvers from 22LR to 45ACP, but a Ruger GP100 loaded with 38 Special +P hollowpoints is my primary defense firearm because it’s what my wife prefers to shoot and I know it’s effective enough to get the job done.
Here ya go FRiend, I wanted you to see the jpg in this post. Nasty stuff!