I've been mulling over the same thing. I have a little, 22 RL Ruger MKII, which is just a target pistol (but a ton of cheap fun). I was thinking 9 mm or 357 revolver (3.5" barrel). Don't need a concealed carry weapon, just a nightstand tool. I'm leaning towards a Taurus revolver.
http://www.taurususa.com/products/gunselector-results.cfm?series=MF2

I too don't know squat about handguns and learned a lot from this site:
http://www.thehighroad.org/

If you are considering a used handgun, they have a checklist on the forum to make sure the weapon is in good condition, but based on what I think I DON'T KNOW, I'll take a knowledgeable friend along to assist.

Al