U will find that everyone here has their own idea of what is best. To some degree, you will take a chance, no matter what - Trying to find a range that rents guns will be your best bet. I have bought guns before that felt great in my hand at the store, but at the range, I didn't like them.
I have seen some Beretta 92FS base models for $409 at the past couple of gun shows in my area. XDs are pretty good. I love the Walther P99, but the trigger style I prefer is not around much right now, and I don't care for the QA trigger.
I really lik ethe HK USP compact - the grip is more manageable than the fullsize USP. But, it ain't cheap. The HK P2000 is also nice. Glocks are good, if you can adjust to the trigger - some people have issues.
So, listen to what everyone here tells U to give U some ideas - don't go buy a crappy brand of gun. But, try to rent some...