I have been researching a new concealed carry gun now for a few weeks. I would buy either a Sig P239 or a P229 in .40 cal. They also make the same guns in 9mm. They aren't cheap 7-$800 but I would bet my life on them. I was also considering a Beretta or a H&K USP. One cheaper gun you might want to look at is the Magnum Research Baby Eagle. They come in 45,40 and 9mm. I have one of these in .40 cal and it will shoot anything. I have fired around 700 rounds so far without a jam and the gun only cost me $300 used. I would steer away from the 1911 style pistols. I've read some of them need a lot of attention and tuning to be reliable. I still love them and really want one, but for a first gun I would pick something different.