Hi Point makes a good budget carbine. I also like the Ruger PC9 for more cash...
I liked my Hi Point 995TS when I had it, only sold it because it was purely a fun gun and needed the money. It never jammed on me and i'd use it for HD in a heartbeat. I've been thinking about getting another one but i'll probably end up with a Beretta Storm, just to have something different. The price has crept up on the Hi Points so much that there is only a $200 or so difference anyways.