What handgun do you recommend for a novice considering buying his first gun?

I strongly recommend a Glock 17 for starters.

Easy to shoot, cheap ammo, and easy to clean.

Plus they are reliable and accurate.

Great for target practice and general plinking around in the woods.

Ideal for self and home protection.

Not the ideal concealed carry handgun but there is always a compromise.

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A lot will depend on the intended use of the handgun. Target shoooting, self defense, hunting, etc. In many cases, a .22 target pistol such as a Ruger Mark III may be a good choice. I would reccomend that the poster find a range that rents handguns for use on that range, and try as many as they can. While Glock makes a good firearm, it may or may not be the right one for the new shooter's purposes.