RE: .380 acp
I used to have a PPK, nice gun, very well made, functioned perfectly. Not incredibly accurate though do to the small size. And remember a .380 is pretty much a 9mm short.
I later got a 9mm browning HI POWER and was much happier with it. Although it was a lot bigger than the PPK if you were thinking about concealed carry. But the Browning was VERY accurate and with +P loads the 9mm is pretty capable.
I also had a brother in law that had a glock .40. Great gun for an experienced shooter. Not so great for the begginer in my opinion. The trigger safety is a bit iffy for me and if you don't grip them properly they will jam. You can't limp wrist them. Other than that they are incredible weapons for the money. Sort of like the AK of pistols. Not the most accurate, but function no matter what.
I would actually suggest a revolver in .357 mag for a new shooter or for someone that doesn't intend on shooting a lot. They are not mechanically complicated, simple to use and you can use .38 ammo for practice.
Paul