Most important...the gun needs to fit you and your hand. If it isn't comfortable in your hand it wont be fun to shoot and you'll be less accurate. Go fondle some...go to a range that rents various models and toss some lead.

As for personal fav's...My Browning Hi-Power (in 40) is the best handgun I have ever owned and is a dream to handle. Second best would be my Sig 226 (also in 40) and for daily carry conceal, this is my primary weapon. I have 3 Beretta 92F's (9mm)...great guns...durable and reliable and my go to when I just want to blast up boxes of lead. I also have a Kahr CW9 and a CW40...go to guns for low-profile carry/conceal (ankle, etc.). I also have a Taurus 454 Casull Raging Bull...packed when fishing in Alaska to keep the combat fishermen at a distance...LOL...Along with a few others I also have a Glock 22 also in the safe because I can't seem to give the PIECE OF JUNK away...clunky to shoot, less accurate than throwing rocks...but hey, it's dishwasher safe...so not completely useless! It all comes down to what ya wanna use for it and if it fits you. Do your homework and make the right decision and have fun on the adventure of choosing.