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I have been carrying firearms for a living since the early 60’s, and a decade in the military prior to that.
I shoot handgun and carbine at least three times a week when everything goes well. More if I can manage it.
I carry a firearm all the time, within the constraints of the law.
Selection of a firearm and the training with it is a very VERY serious business. Although firearms are a load of fun, they still are the subject of a great threat. worse, ignorance or carelessness creates very bad PR, something no gunner needs or wants.

Bad advice may be deadly, and may bring certain legal problems in civil court.

I will not give selection advice in a forum context, and recommend that anyone wanting to purchase a weapon go to a local range affiliated with the IDPA (International Defensive Pistol Association)watch, listen and ask questions of the shooters, who will be happy to assist in a safe and educated setting.

If one does not train well and seriously the risks multiply exponentially and disaster is nearby.
There. I have said my piece. Now can I scream?
AAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!

If one does not train well and seriously the risks multiply exponentially and disaster is nearby.

Agreed.

I have been around firearms since I was a kid...took the appropriate safety courses, but my father was my mentor on the responsibilities of gun ownership and safety.

He bought me my Ruger .44 rifle when I was fourteen.

I posted this question in 2002 because I have never owned a handgun.

In the end, I tried different varieties and made a good decision.

I don't think it's wrong to ask for input...but perhaps at the time I was just thinking 9mm = personal protection, as opposed to truly researching the available options.

In any case, I love my Ruger .357 Magnum.

That said, what should I get to blow away a target at 1000 yards??? ;-)