I own a few 9mm's...
FN HI-POWER P35 1936 single action JMBrowning design at it's best ( collectors item )
WALTHER P38 1939 first double action to be adopted by a military ( collectors item )
BERETTA 9000S 2001 SA / DA combo...small easy to conceal...my wifes CCW
SIG SAUER P226 1980 DA very accurate, high capacity...conceals well under jacket
S&W M659 1985 DA 15 shot capacity good range gun...but too heavy for CCW
RUGER P-89 DC 1995 DA decocker...built like a tank...weighs as much
though the similarity ends with the caliber...each is a good example of a well made platform for the 9x19 projectile.
And come the next gun show in March, I'm looking to buy a Kel Tec PF-9...a very light, compact and CNC machined 7+1 backup piece...to replace my Kel Tec P32 as my BUG
A few ranges in PA rent guns, and if you can find a range in your area that does, my first suggestion would be to handle and shoot any brand you can get your hands on, to include friends you make a the range. Sometimes I see a member roll up with a firearm that I've never handled or shot...I make it a point to introduce myself...talk about the gun and mention I've never had a chance to check one out, and before ya know it, the guy will ask if ya want to give it a try...that's usually what I do when someone rolls up and politely asks about a weapon in my possesion. I also make it a point to ask questions at gunshops, gunshows, and forums like this to gather any user input about a certain firearm...but I also read alot...owning many firearm reference books, and own a modest collection of firearms ( 35+ ), which enable me to formulate an opinion based on lessons learned
If I had to pick my favorite 9mm ...well, I have listed the ones I own above in order of preference.
Good Luck...let us know which you pick and why...