I have lots of experience with firearms. The gun will be for self protection but it won’t be concealed. I have always liked semi’s but am a bit leery of their reliability... Is this even a valid concern?
Thanks for the replies everyone!
+1 on the 1911 in .45, but I’d also suggest the Beretta PX4. I’ve got one in 9mm (around $550). It’s never failed to shoot and everybody who tries it loves it (including gun snobs). It fits like a glove and it’s good looking to boot.
Otherwise I’m partial to Sigs, but they’re more expensive. The Springfield Armory XDM series has a good reputation, they’re in your price range, and they’re not as ugly as Glocks.
Guns are tools, but I also think they can be works of art too.
So many brands and styles I think you really have to decide on a few key questions before you make a selection.
Metal or Polymer? To my eye polymers tend to be ugly things. I am not a Glock fan - but there are few handguns that can take more abuse or perform better in a non-pristine state.
Semi-auto or revolver? A good quality, well lubed semi should not present any significant reliability issues. I clean and lube my guns THOROUGHLY after each use.
Caliber? 9mm is very popular - and generally what I would suggest. If single shot man-stopping power is important then a .45 is a great choice. The 9mm will be cheaper to shoot, and without practice caliber may be a moot point.
Personally I like Beretta's.
For a polymer the PX4 Storm is a nice looking handgun:
I use a 92 FS Inox ($650 in black, $750 for Inox):
Seriously?
You’re thinking of the wrong guns. Everyone’s first gun should be a .22 rifle or pistol, preferable the rifle.
Ruger’s Mark II .22 pistol is one of the most reliable and favorite of the line. The 10-22 rifle can’t be beat.