99% of people on here or at the local gun shop are going to tell you buy a "Remchester 999 Magnum" because that's what they own.

I will agree with pintailhomes in that a revolver is the easiest to clean/mantain/etc. as a general rule. A medium framed 357 magnum by S&W or Ruger or anyone else for that matter, will give you the ability to shoot milder and cheaper 38 special loads or 357 magnum loads.

Go to a local range that rents handguns and try a variety of makes and calibers. Any model by Glock, HK, Springfield, Ruger, S&W, Colt, etc. should offer good quality. The cheaper guns like Highpoint, Jennings, etc. are another story.