TexasCHLforum.com

lots of good advice here, your best bet is probably to find a local range that allows you to rent handguns and try out as many as possible to see what you feel comfortable shooting. i didn't get into handguns while i was in Lubbock during my college years so i don't have any specific recommendations, sounds like RPB has you covered there though. Taurus handguns are generally priced cheaper than other models and as far as reliability, you'll get mixed opinions but i've heard plenty good things about them.

good luck and