I am in the market for a handgun and would like some of you more experienced bandoleros. I have never owned a handgung before, but with the way this world seems to be headed and having a little one around the house now, thought it might not be a bad idea. I will get my CWP and become proficient with it, but I will not be one of those over paranoid guys that grabs his ankle weight on the way to Sunday Evening service. My considerations are as follows:

1) Dont want to break the bank. Thinking in the $350 range.
2) Not trying to kill elephants, but want something a little more lethal that a .22.
3) Like I said, I will practice a good bit so I dont want to spend a ton on ammo. Accuracy is a must.
4) Even though I will get my CWP, it doesnt have to be a super slim, sub compact.

Just looking for ideas on what has worked for you guys as well as what to stay away from. I have been told by several people that have .380's that it couldn't hit a 50 gallon drum if it was inside with the lid closed. Thoughts?