Not doubting you but I'd be interested in seeing a source for this remark. Thinking of a 9mm but wondering what's the best deal for a dual role home defense and (lots) range shooter - no point having an HD piece if you're not very familiar with it IMHO. Thanks.
If you plan to shoot it a lot, stick with a 9mm. The ammunition is the least expensive, and the recoil is not bad. Stay away from Taurus, and the other cheap makers. They won't stand up to heavy use.
One exception is the Ruger semi automatics. They cost less than the other famous names. They're heavy, which makes them recoil less. They aren't 'pretty,' but it's a gun, not a painting.
Put some heavy - 147 grain - hollowpoints in it and it will serve well. Just remember the old saying, "A handgun is a tool to fight your way to a rifle."