First Gun

Jfost, sounds like you are on somewhat of a budget, am I correct? If so, I would recommend something in 9mm as a good starter, it is still a serious self-defense cartridge (to most), especially when loaded with good-quality +p Hollow points. The benefit of the 9mm is that it is one of the cheapest and most widely-available cartridges, so you'll be able to afford more practice time, which will allow you to become more confident in your abilities.

As far as specific firearms go, my first handgun was a Ruger P95 (you mentioned you had already shot a Ruger, so I won't preach to you how excellent of a gun they are for the money). You may also want to look into the SigPro series of handguns, they are basically a polymer-framed version of the Sig P229 (with some minor differences), but they run about $200-300 cheaper, so you could probably find one new, or definitely used, for around $400. I also like the Glock 19 quite a bit, the Glock is an easy platform to learn how to shoot. Taurus also makes some decent auto-loaders, I've heard a lot of good things about their Millenium Pro.

What it comes down to is what feels best to you. What fits well in my hand may not be comfortable at all for you to shoot, so you will definitely want to spend as much time as possible handling and shooting a variety of different makes and models before making your choice.
 
I don't have one, but I'll second the Bersa. The folks at the local gun store recommends it, but they sell 'em.
A used CZ 82, which I do own, would be a suggestion also.
 
jfost
Any suggestions about a different gun other than the glock or the ruger 9mm?
My budget is 400. I want a gun for concealed carry and protection and definitely a semi-automatic handgun.
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Well based on your parmeters I can't think of anything else beside GLOCK or Ruger. Sig and H&K are very expensive and S&W isn't real cheap. I personally still have issues with Taurus's quality control and all the various 1911's are also fairly expensive and require a little more experience. IMHO.
 
Check out Taurus PT111 or PT145
Reliable, concealable and around $350, or they were before this months.... uh.... changes. The PT145 has a safety, not sure about the PT111, they also make a PT3AT, say it out loud and you'll get the caliber.
 
Any of the ruger p series make a great first pistol. I and most of my friends started out on those. The price is right and the quality is good.

I used to have (and carry) a Ruger P85. The only complaint I had was that it was very bulky and difficult to conceal. Other than that, a very robust and reliable piece.

Maybe I'm wrong but I dont think Berretta makes a .38

Neither did I, but I just googled it and apparently they do.
 
Check out Taurus PT111 or PT145
Reliable, concealable and around $350, or they were before this months.... uh.... changes. The PT145 has a safety, not sure about the PT111, they also make a PT3AT, say it out loud and you'll get the caliber.
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YEA, good price still. I picked up pt140PRO 40cal, for $329 at the Academy last week
 
my favorite carry gun is my 908. She may not be the best looking girl at the dance but she sure makes up for it with skill and enthusiasm. The Smith 9xx guns are some of the most overlooked high quality low cost non-polymer pieces you can find anywhere.
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+1 , they are nice and low cost, but good concealable guns
 
bersa is a good option

bersa thunder .380 is a great little gun and well within your price range. i've put a lot of rounds through mine and the only problem i've had is one feed malfunction and i'm chalking that up to the reloaded ammo i was using. but with any gun proper cleaning and care is a must. if you treat your gun right, it will treat you right. depending on the finish they will run in price anywhere from $250-$350.
 
Glock 23 or Glock 19

G23 is a little more jumpy than the G19. You just need to spend time practicing so that you get comfortable with it.
 
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