Another vote for the ruger! my first gun was a full size P89 (9mm) and i love it, rugged, super reliable, and feels good/balanced in the hand. Also i really like that it has a metal frame, i just cant get into the polymer guns. My vote is for a P89 (9mm) or a P90 (.45acp) if he wants a full size gun or a P93 or P94 if he wants something more compact. In my opinion they are the best guns for the money. Maybe its just cause its my first gun but after having shot numerous glocks, berettas, sigs, and even a couple HKs, i will always favor my trusty P89.