Go to the range and rent several types of handguns. Try them on for size, see which ones you like to shoot, which ones you feel comfortable with. (just remember that range guns are usally very dirty so don't judge reliablity on them)

The list of good guns in huge, Glock, Sig, H&K, S&W, Ruger, XD, CZ, etc... etc... The trick is finding the one that you feel comfortable with and can shoot. Don't forget the good ol' wheel guns like the Ruger GP100, S&W 19/66. These allow you to "plink" with .38spcl and use .357mag for defense.

Right now I carry a Glock 22 .40S&W as a duty weapon and a Glock 27 .40S&W as an off duty weapon. I have 100% confindence in both.