If you want low cost, get a 7.62, and a couple of cases of ammunition. Lots of cheap shooting. Don't get one with the add on thumb safety, get one that is essentially the same as original issue.
The single stack 1911A1 clones are generally well reported. My NP-29 9mm has about 2700 rounds through it now and is just chugging right along. You don't often hear many complaints about the .45s.
There has been the occasional report of a cracked frame with the SIG clones, the CZ copies seem to be well liked.
The Chinese copy of the FEG copy of the Browning has had mixed reviews.
The little 93, the copy of the early Woodsman .22, seems to be generally well liked, although some have reported ammunition sensitivity, even the odd one that doesn't work well with anything. I've only shot one, it was a great little plinker.
Now a 1911A1 type is $325-$350 plus tax and delivery. Say, $400. You might want to consider what you could find in the way of a used brand name pistol. New Norincos are cheaper than just about anything else new. Some folks would rather have a used brand name pistol than a new Norinco.
For a first pistol, you might consider a used Ruger .22, or if you want a centrefire, a used S&W or Colt .38 Special police type revolver. Generally, the pistol won't be expensive, and the ammunition will be cheap.
Don't decide that your first gun has to be a Norinco.
