[fred cook]

The suggestion to start with a .22 pistol or revolver is very wise advice. You can/will develop much better shooting habits with a .22 than a centerfire. Once you have learned the basics of sight picture, body position, grip, trigger squeeze, breath control, etc., then you will be ready to move on to a centerfire weapon. I have been shooting on a regular basis for over 40 years and still take a .22 pistol (Colt Woodsman) along to the range to shoot before moving on to other larger caliber revolvers or pistols. Once you have developed your good shooting habits, then is the time to look for something bigger. Since you are in Kalifornia, the land of 10 round mags, why not go for a .40 S&W or .45 ACP handgun? You will have a much better/harder hitting round and will still be able to carry the legal number of rounds. The XD or XD-M, Sig 220, FNP and Glock are all good choices. Personally, I prefer the FN FNP over the Glock, but that is just "me". Good luck with your search!