http://www.budsgunsh...oducts_id/32433
If you do any serious research of Taurus on dedicated gun forums, you will here them as a mixed bag. They used to have serious problems with quality control, but have come so far in the meantime than their quality ranks up there with the likes of any American gun maker.
As for the MilPro PT-111, I don't own that exact model, but I do own the MilPro PT-145, which is the same as the 111 save for being chambered in 45ACP. I can tell you it is a very good design, with excellent ergos, all in a small compact package.
9mm, even in a 3" barrel will be more than enough to ruin the day of what ever you point it at and pull the trigger. 9mm is still on the cheaper side, so you will be able to practice more. If you are planning on using it for a home defense gun, you should at least practice once a month at a range.
As for bud's gun shop, I have never ordered from them, but after you include shipping and the FFL transfer fee, you will most likely be able to save money and time just buying it local. I would try the sprotsman's warehouse up in roseville. They seem to have the best selection and prices.
Oh, and on more thing. Make sure you have your hand gun safety certificate before you try to buy it. It is required at time of purchase. It costs something like $25, good for 5 years, and allows you to buy any hand gun on the DoJ's roster of safe hand guns. You have to take a short test on hand gun safety and law. If you pass, then you get your certificate. I need to renew mine. Expired in June this year.
Which bring up another thing, make sure your gun is on the DoJ's list before you try and buy it. All new handguns in CA have to be safety tested by the DoJ. If it isn't on the list, then you are SOL. http://certguns.doj.ca.gov/