Jay, I have two Taurus handguns, and both are good, servicable weapons. Having said this, I would recommend that you take a trip up to that shooting range in Monmouth County that rents guns, and try some out. I know it's difficult in that state you still insist on living in

but the Springfield XD and even Glocks offer a long slide auto that you might even like better then the 24/7.
For the money, the Taurus is a very good value, depends on how much you want to shell out.