[gadrooning]

.22 gun is a must. All gun owners must have at least one. I would difinately suggest a Ruger, any of the Mark series. Curious though you say the .45 is out because of price. 45ACP rounds are no more expensive or harder to find that a 9mm or a .40 cal. Are you sure you weren't looking at the .45 colt. That is a whole different round and yes that is an expensive round. You should be able to find a box of 50 .45 ACP's anywheres from 18 to 25 dollars. Also if you like the .40 cal, you'll really like the .45ACP. The 40 has more kick or muzzle flip or snap, what ever you want to call it, but the .45 ACP has the same kick, but more of like a push rather than a snap. I personally enjoy and shoot the 45 ACP over my Beretta Px4 40 cal. I suggest a good 1911.

[Force4000]

I bought a Walther P22 after buying my .40 and I would say it was well worth it. Ammunition is so easy to come by and cheap.

[red ryder]

I have a 229 .40S&W as well as P22 and its a great little gun. fun to shoot..not something i would consider Home Defense though.

I vote you get a revolver. a nice .357 would allow you to shoot .38sp and they are a blast to shoot at the range.