Buy American made whatever you do.
First time handgun buyer should never buy a semi auto. Get a double action revolver. Much easier to use.
Bought a Bond Arms Rowdy in .45 Long colt/.410. Beast of a hand gun. Heirloom quality for $300. Fits in cargo pants without a holster. We dont wear enough clothes down here to carry larger weapon. After much research I did the Bond Arms. Made in Texas. Has barrels available so that with a simple set screw you can swap to whatever your caliber you want.