Gotta put my 2 cents in here: if you are thinking about picking up any tool or technique for self defense, it has to be something that you can perform under stress with competence, which means not only education but also practice and upkeep, and training specifically for self-defense. I'm not sure if there are any combat/ self defense handgunning instructors in the area. Shae has the benefit of military training, but I'd caution anyone who doesn't have combat training to think twice about picking up a handgun for self-defense unless you are willing to put in not only range-time but also learn to use it (and also how not to use it) under adrenal stress.
Anyhow, we're all adults and guns are awesome but they are a huge responsibility and liability. Please be careful.