The best bang for the buck is to choose a gun that's interchangeable with other models. I think you're correct with the 9mm, Glock would be in the forefront. I think, don't hold me to it, that the G17 is comparable to the G26 in build and holstering, I do know that there are very similar Glock models that can serve one holster design. At least that way you're killin 2 birds with 1 stone.