They are expensive, but I am a Heckler & Koch fanatic. My first duty weapon was an H&K USP .40 Compact (USP stands for Universial Self-Loading Pistol). H&K actually was before Glock and is the best damn weapon on the market, IMHO. I love them things and wished my current Chief would allow me to carry mine. I have to carry a Smith & Wesson 1911 .45, which is okay, but no where near the quality of either of my H&K's. (I own a .45 USP Compact also).

The answer to your question really depends on what you intend to do with it.

If it is for fun, any decent gun will do. Sig Sauer, H&K, Glock, S&W, Colt, Taurus, they all are great guns.

For specifically used as defensive, noting less than a an H&K, Glock, S&W, or Taurus will do. My wife carries a Smith & Wesson .38 w/ a factory Crimson Trace laser installed.

For hunting rifles, Remington, Winchester, Marlin, and American Safari are the way to go.

It just all depends on what you want to do.