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Buy a pistol that fits your hand, one whose recoil is not excessive, and that is affordable. A good 6-shot, .38 Special S&W Model 10 (fixed sights), here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smith_%26_Wesson_Model_10

Or, the S&W Model 15 (adjustable sights) in .38 Special is fine. Here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smith_%26_Wesson_Model_15

Self-loaders need some getting used to, but the Makarov in 9.2x18 caliber is fine (8+1). Here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makarov_pistol
Common Makarovs are Russian, Bulgarian, East German, and Chinese.