Another vote for the 22LR. Given your preferences (although looks are important, they are not everything) I would suggest any of the following
Pistols. Numbers are not priorities. Prices are my views only and they vary based on new or used guns and condition and location of sale. And they can be argued over as they probably will be on this forum.
1. S&W 422/622 - used but they are available $250+
2. Walther P22 $250-350
3. Ruger 22/45 or Mk II/III ( I know what you said) $300-350
4. Baretta Bobcat or Taurus clone (cheaper, just as good)
5. Taurus 94 revolver (again I know what you said) $350
You will have enough money left over to buy at least one of these 22 rifles
1. Ruger 10 22 semi auto $225-275 new
2. Marlin model 60 Semi auto 150-200 new
3. S&W M&P 15 22 (really cool, An AR 15 look like 22 cal) $400-499 new
Plus you will have money for bullets and targets and a nice dinner.
Next on the agenda is a larger caliber, go with 9 mm so the GF can shoot and enjoy it
1. S&WM&P $500+
2. Springfield XD $450+
(1&2 are my favorites and reasonably priced) There are other good guns available
Its possible with good bargaining that you could buy one from all 3 groups at a gun show or on the web for $1000+. A gun shop will probably be higher. But I have seen the above prices in various gunshops in Alabama.
