I am a fairly avid shooter and carry for a living. I'd avoid the Taurus family of semi autos if you plan on shooting it a lot (more than just shooting to maintain proficiency); they have a reputation as decent and economical guns but they will fail under heavy use. I had a PT101 that spit the mag out almost every round; and a PT92 that the locking block failed on after 5,000 rounds. Their customer service is very good, and the guns have a lifetime warranty, but none of that matters if the gun fails when it absolutely has to work. Kel Tec, I've owned several P32, several P3AT, and one PF-9. The mini guns were very good pocket guns albeit a bit weak (.32 and .380). Much like the Taurus, they are built for carrying and not shooting. Kel Tec even specifies about a 6,000 round frame life span. I never even shot the PF-9, I disliked it's ergos, so I sold it immediately. I cannot comment on it. Ruger LCP, I've owned one; see Kel Tec comments above as it is essentially the same gun, although a bit better finished; I found it to actually be a little less reliable. Never had a failure with the Kel Tecs but I had several with the Ruger. My choices would be Glock, Sig, S/W, and similar reputable companies. I currently carry a Glock 19 (mid size 9mm) and back it up with either a second Glock 19 or a Smith 642 (5 shot .38 revolver) and a spare mag. In rare circumstances I only carry the Smith, but it's 5 rounds limit it as a serious "agressive defense" handgun. I really dislike the Glock from an aesthetic standpoint. It is hideous, and really doesn't feel too great in my hands. But, it is a ultra reliable firearm that I absolutely know will get the job done. It is quite accurate. Interchangeable mags (from the larger capactiy Glock 17) and a huge aftermarket mean it is a versatile gun. If you think to XD is too big, though, most likely the Glock will also be too big. The Smith is a beautiful gun, IMO. Despite it's 5 round limit it can be an effective "last ditch" weapon. It is also surprisingly concealable in a pocket holster, or on the ankle. It's amazing, it really disappears in most pockets, which you wouldn't think due to it's size.