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I agree with Middle Age Russ: Almost no one will try to argue that anything 9mm and larger will make a perfectly suitable defensive weapon. Ammunition technology has come a long way in the past couple of decades, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with choosing, and staying with, 9mm.

I agree with SlickTX: Try locating a range that rents guns, and give several a whirl. Also, the members here are a particularly friendly bunch and, depending upon your location, may invite you to join them at a range to talk about and try out a few of their own guns.

I agree with Teamless: Given the economy and the likelihood that ammunition prices will continue to increase—fluctuate, but generally increase—give some thought to buying a .22 LR in addition to a carry gun. I’m a big believer in dry-fire practice, but you can also reap a lot of benefit from a .22 during live-fire practice.

Good-shootin’ .22 pistols are inexpensive and accurate, are great for that time when you’ll want to introduce someone else to handgun shooting, provide excellent practice on the basics like sight picture and trigger control and, a biggie, you can send about seven .22s down range for the cost of a single 9mm commercial round; or about nine .22s per .40 S&W round; or about 11 .22s per .45 ACP round. It adds up quickly.

My best recommendation is to take your time, make a wish-list of defensive handguns you’d like to try out, shoot as many of those as you can, and be as informed as possible when you then make the purchase. If you commit to carrying it, it’s going to be with you a lot. Being comfortable with, and confident in, the gun is crucial.