You really can't choose a gun until you have shot it. Your best bet is to look for a pistol range that allows you to rent guns. They usually have a pretty good selection of rentals to choose from. Either that or find a buddy that has some guns that you could try.

While I was still stationed in Cali, I tried out a few handguns at an indoor range close to base. That is how I made the choice to buy this:



Not only that but H&K is a well known, quality brand. Not cheap, but you're definitely getting your money's worth. I am also planning on picking up one of these in the near future:



My favorite pistol from CS