The Glock, Springfield XD, S&W M&P from what I've experienced and seen are the top guns for reliability and durability for people on a budget. We shoot them in Production Division and shoot them more in a month than most people will in ten years. I carry a Glock as do many of my friends that compete. When you go to shoots you will notice there are no Taurus or Ruger factory shooters (I wear a Crown Bullet factory shirt). There's a good reason. Quality and durability problems.
You really need to get out of California sometime and come shoot here at Rio Salado in Mesa,Az. It's considered by many to be the best place to learn to shoot in the world. PM me if you are coming this way. We'll have a pistol for you too if you want. You may get to shoot with guys like JJ Racazza or Robbie Leatham depending on when you come. Here's JJ freezing to death. LOL