IBTZ
masterbeaver, Vanity Posts since Mar 9, 2009. Not a good way to kick off your FR career, my FRiend. You will catch grief.
For the sake of argument, I'll post my opinions on your question.
1) Buy what you can afford and what you feel comfortable with (no matter what the caliber/size)
2) Practice, practice, practice. Doesn't matter what you buy, if you can't hit the target.
3) Once you buy it, you must be willing to use it. Doesn't do you an ounce of good to have a gun you are comfortable and proficient with for self defense, if you are not willing to shoot another person with it; should the circumstances arise.
All the rest is white noise, as you will get as many opinions over what to buy as there are makes of pistols out there.
I tend to agree with the revolver idea. And as mentioned if you get a .357, you can shoot .38 ammo for practice. You might want to consider one with a durable stainless steel finish. You may actually be able to find some deals in the used market but you would need someone experienced to go with you.
As for an automatics, they tend to be a bit more expensive and do require more maintenance. The classic full size Beretta 92, which is the standard military sidearm is pretty easy to break down and maintain. Plus it has a 15 round capacity and 9mm ammo is still fairly plentiful and easy to obtain. Again try shooting a variety of the types mentioned and see what you like. Look for a price of mid $500 for this Beretta.
For effective home defence on a budget, I have a Maverick/Mossberg 12 gauge pump which can be had for $200 or less. For a good quality, new handgun, remember you are looking at about twice that.
I’m wondering how easy it is to find a good handgun and the ammo to go with it right now? Again 9mm and 12 ga is fairy easy to come by but I’ve had real trouble finding anything in .380ACP.
Good luck. Whatever you do, I suggest you do it quick. I do think semi-automatics in any form could be targeted by the commies in charge at any moment.
I am considering buying “The Judge”. Its a 45 cal revolver that also shoots 410 shotgun shells.