Remember, Its not the gun, its the operator.
A Para, with good sights and a trigger job, is a good gun.
I like my P-14,(got it in 1994) at 7 yards I'm still quicker on a draw, with it than any of the S_ I's that I have.
It fits my hand, If I could get better eyes, for longer shots, I would still be using it.
They are harder to sell, but I'd bet you could pick up a good used one, stay in your budget, and have a great time . I think the mags can be worked to hold 22, in a P-16.