Carl,
I'm a newbie to handgun ownership as well, although I've shot since my youth. I was sold on a Sig P229 as soon as I held it. It fits my hand perfectly, and with a $20 of Hogue grips becomes a perfect extension of the arm. Many of the other posts on this thread and elsewhere will testify to the ultimate reliability and value that a Sig will provide you. Maybe .40 isn't for you, but other Sigs in 9mm or .45 are available, either full size or compact. Any of them will be very sturdy, accurate, and dependable. Also I've heard Sigs service is excellent, in the unlikely event you'll ever need them - in stark contrast to some, like Colt and H&K, that won't return calls (or your firearm!) in a timely manner.
Cullen
------------------
Those who say Science disproves the existence of God understand neither Science nor God.
We scoff at honor and then are surprised to discover traitors in our midst - Edmund Burke
I'm a newbie to handgun ownership as well, although I've shot since my youth. I was sold on a Sig P229 as soon as I held it. It fits my hand perfectly, and with a $20 of Hogue grips becomes a perfect extension of the arm. Many of the other posts on this thread and elsewhere will testify to the ultimate reliability and value that a Sig will provide you. Maybe .40 isn't for you, but other Sigs in 9mm or .45 are available, either full size or compact. Any of them will be very sturdy, accurate, and dependable. Also I've heard Sigs service is excellent, in the unlikely event you'll ever need them - in stark contrast to some, like Colt and H&K, that won't return calls (or your firearm!) in a timely manner.
Cullen
------------------
Those who say Science disproves the existence of God understand neither Science nor God.
We scoff at honor and then are surprised to discover traitors in our midst - Edmund Burke