a taurus 856 38sp, six shot, revolver can still be had for $300+. get it in steel, not alloy, for recoil control. i have its five shot kid brother, taurus 85. revolvers are decent, simple and reliable handguns, very little to fumble with or go wrong, especially in a high adrenaline situation. if worried about reloads get a couple of speedloaders. if you can find a decent instructor who is well versed on revolvers you will be surprised at how fast you can put into action.