🚀 go-pugleaf

One gun store in San Diego to visit is the Gun Company on
Morena Blvd., just north of Friars Road and just
east of I-5.

Stay away from the Llamas.  The quality that I have seen lately
is terrible.  The Stars are much better for about the same
money.  You might also look at the Astra A-80 in either 9mm Pb or
.45 ACP.  For about $250, it has the price, a decent reputation
and double-action.

Another pistol to consider is the Thompson .45 ACP pistol.
This gun is very well made IN AMERICA.  According to a friend who
runs a range, after 4000 rounds, only minor parts
had to be replaced to keep it going.  It lists for $325.

The Belgium Browning P-35s are very study, but are on the expensive
side. The Hungarian copy is nearly identical and sells for
half the price.  Both are single action and must have the
magazine safety removed to be useful.

For plinking, I would go with the 9mm Pb, since the bullets
in cal. .38 and 9mm are cheaper than those in .45 ACP.
9mm Pb has a flatter trajectory than the .45's.
Some of the newer 9mm bullets from Hornady and Sierra in 9mm are
much more accurate than the older models.  

For personal protection, the only choice is the .45 ACP.
The Star PD may be something that fits into your pocket
and pocket book. (pun intended :-)  It is single action.
Its aluminum frame will probably not last 4000 rounds.
(But who shoots 4000 rounds?)

Jon Kaplowitz