byf43
SCSC Life/NRA Patron Life
I wouldn't ask any recommendations at this point.
Go to a good gun shop (check the industry partners) and at least hold a dozen or so different pistols. You may not be able to choose a winner, but at least you'll know some that feel "right" and some that don't fit your hand at all. Make a list. Go to a range with rentals and shoot the ones that you liked. By then, you'll be down to 2-4 favorites.
Then you can break the deadlock by asking for opinions. Otherwise, you're going to get recommendations for about 25-30 different guns. Having been where you are, I can say that it's not terribly useful and can be very confusing.
The section in red boldface is spot on advice!
Here is what I have advised many people, especially first-time buyers -
You want a pistol that fits YOU, and is comfortable to shoot, to YOU.
Every Jimmy Joe-Bob can tell you what they think is best. YOU need to find this out for yourself.
There is NOTHING 'wrong' with the Browning Hi-Power, CZ, S&W, 1911 in 9mm, etc. NOTHING.
With that said, IF you want the simplest, easiest to maintain, reliable 9mm pistol available, take at look at Glock.
Glock G17, G19, or G26.
That list goes from 'standard' to 'medium/compact', to 'smallest' size.
I own both the G19 and G26.
The G19 is extremely accurate and enjoy them both.
Spare parts/accessories and aftermarket 'goodies' are readily available, and for not-too-much $$$.
Again, see what fits YOU and go from there.