Basspro has a deal now its only 700 for a new one. Im getting a judge this week with a 6" barrel but this will be on the X-mas list for sure...

Have you tried to stop by a range and see if they offer the rentals? Some ranges I go to will allow you to rent a caliper of gun and buy their ammo for it but you can change the gun with no added fee. Then you can shot a few and pick the brand you like.