I have a P85 Mk.2 that I enjoy. I say enjoy, because it is not a target pistol, so I don't expect that kind of accuracy from it; it was designed as a police/ armed services pistol. However, it's quite effective at "combat distances", is tough as nails, eats anything and is dead reliable. I put adjustable sights on mine, and when I get the BC CFO to quit d*%!ing around and issue me the ATT I want, I'll be trying those out.
Personally I find it to be a tad big for my hand, and have put on a set of Pachmayr grips with their front strap section cut off, but it's still not as comfortable as I'd like. My winter project is to make a set of hardwood (oak) grips for it, and thin them down to where it fits better in my small hands.
Look up at the top of the page where the sponsors are, check out Armco. He has 2 P-series Rugers for sale right now. Also check Reliable, they often have them, under "used pistols".
You may want to give serious thought to starting out with a .22 pistol. Three reasons: they're easier to learn the basics on, ammo is WAY cheaper (3 or 4 cents a round), and trust me- they're tons of fun!
I have a Ruger MK.1 5.5 inch bull barrel that's quite accurate, and has a great trigger right out of the box.
Use the search function- this topic has come up countless times.
Welcome to the club!