[id10t]

What do you want a pistol for? Self defense at home, concealed carry, casual target, serious target, etc? That will dictate (to some degree) size and caliber.

If just plinking and casual target shooting, I'd look at the various good 22s out there. Ruger Mk II or III, Browning Buckmark, etc. Revolver wise you have some choices, but I've not shot any of 'em.

Self defense at home? Get a dog. And a 20ga shotgun. If you must get a handgun, get a large frame auto - full size 1911, Glock 17/20/21/22, Beretta 92/96, SIG 220/226, CZ75/97 or clone thereof (EAA imports a nice one), Browning Hi Power, etc. Revolver wise any thing in 357 mag up to 44mag or 45 long colt. The super magnums (460, 480, 500) just aren't really suitable. Of course, if you are in Alaska and your home defense scenarios include a bear breaking in thru a window, etc. then they very well could be.

Concealed carry - what you carry (and how/where on your body) will be dictated by what clothing you wear, and how strict laws are on printing, etc. Small 38 special revolver, sub compact size auto, etc. Look at the KelTec, Ruger, Khar, NAA, Walther, etc. offerings in 380 or 9mm.

Serious target shooting you either are into single shot range (TC Contender, Rem XP100, etc), or high end 22 semi or revolver, 38/357 revolver, or 45 (1911). Or perhaps back to the full size service type pistol (IDPA, etc).

For all of 'em, focus on operation (does it have a safety system? is it "sane" as to how it is operated... possibly under stress), shootability, availability of ammo, etc. Have fun, keep safety in mind all the time!