There are inexpensive guns and there are cheap guns. I put Taurus in the former (and I own four of 'em), and companies such as Hi-Point and Kel-Tec in the latter . Sure, I also have a few of the latter (such as my TEC-9) but those are more curios and novelties than anything else. I sure as hell wouldn't stake my life on any of them.
If money is an issue, do your research and find a dependable but reasonably priced pistol such as the Taurus PT709 Slim. It is easy to find one for about $350 or less that is an accurate and reliable firearm which is also easy to conceal carry if you are allowed to do so.
I understand not everyone has a large disposable income to spend on guns, but that still doesn't mean you have to buy crap. Do your homework, look around and there are some great firearms that can be had at decent prices.
Cheers! M2