Hi dbrown,
Look around for a used (or new) Ruger P95. Retail depending on your location would be around $300-350 new. It's a very solid, proven pistol.
The only other full size pistol that comes to mind for that price is a Hi-Point. I've never shot one; they tend to be a little controversial because they're so cheap. However, from the research I've done they are as reliable as any other pistol. For that price you'd have your choice of calibers and still have a few bucks left over for some ammo.
If neither of those blow your hair back, save for another few months til you can get up to the $400-500 price point. Your options increase greatly there.
Good luck!