IF you could only own ONE handgun...

[cobb]

None of the above.

 

[coop57]

It would have to be a K frame S&W .357 mag.

 

[RCL]

With the parameters given here, I would recomend a 4" .357, my preferance being a Ruger GP100. A good all around, "jack-of-all-trades" gun.
My own choice would be a stainless 5 1/2" Ruger Bisley in .44 Mag. Good loaded down for range plinking, loaded up for hunting, in a crossdraw for woods bumming.

 

[Nick96]

Why not a .22LR semi auto or revolver? If something more potent is "really needed", then the funds will be found to aquire it. But .22 = a lot of shooting for cheap = familiarity = accuaracy = confidence = reasoned decision to get something bigger.

 

[Frenchy]

My S&W Model 28-2 "Highway Patrolman" 357 mag in a N-Frame package....It's the only way to fly (IMHO).

 

[New_comer]

A USP in 9mm would be the best choice. In full or compact size.

Save a lot in ammo cost, meaning more practice.

With a weapon that's virtually indestructible. And for me, a looker to boot

 

[Brass]

Let it be a Sig P226 with light mount rail.
-Brass

 

[Groupguy]

My brother in law and I had this conversation before Christmas. We decided that while we love our 1911's, We'd have to chose the 9mm, probably Sig 228. Ideally, I'd like for my wife and daughter to shoot the gun as well and, while I'm a big guy, they are not. Therefore, the .45 scares the hell out of them. Plus, when introducing friends to shooting, the 9mm is much more forgiving to new shooters. My P7 M13 is a little too big in the grip for most ladies but they really enjoy shooting the SIG. I try to introduce at least one person a month to the joys of handgun shooting. Further, while power is great, at 7 yards I can kill you as dead with one properly placed shot from my SIG as I can from my Springfield TRP.