[Dallas]

Spend the extra money, and buy a .40 caliber glock.

[FlyVet]

Spend the extra money, and buy a .40 caliber glock.

I'd second that for a novice, and add 9mm since the new bullets such as Hydra-Shok and Gold Dot are more effective. The new Kahr pistols are looking very promising if you want a real compact piece. You'll be hard-pressed to find top quality for $300.

[cayuga]

I agree, Glocks are good. Mine is a 45ACP. But if keeping the price around $300 is important, than a 4" Taurus in 38 Special, 357 Magnum or 44 Special is a good option.