[MRM]

I can't strongly enough agree with the .22 recommendations above. If this is your first handgun, start with the .22, period. It is a great gun, lots of fun, very inexpensive, and you can run through hundreds of rounds without breaking the bank.

The .22 is a great shooter's gun. Use it to learn the fundamentals of handguns and the elements of marksmanship. The Ruger and Smith & Wesson are both great guns. After you get comfortable with them you will be amazed at your accuracy. Then if you want to make noise you can get any big gun you want and you can be confident that you'll be good with it from the word go. Other benefits: you can shoot all day and not have a sore wrist, no recoil makes it easier to hold steady and get a good group, and you won't make the other shooters on the range deaf.

Start with the .22. You'll never regret it.