Investing money in self defense is a 'continuum' rather than a one-time deal, which I'm sure you recognize. As others have pointed out, in addition to the actual firearm(s), you'll need holster(s), some means of secure storage, and expendable supplies like ammo and cleaning stuff, and of course, training.
Given that, I'm not sure if you mean you have $1K to spend on hardware right now, or to spend over a period of time.
If the former, then I would be inclined to get a pair of handguns, along the lines of a service autoloader in full or compact size, and a J-frame-sized revolver. In the mid-priced range ($500 or so) you can find Glocks and XDs (a bit blocky but reliable) and Smith + Wesson M+Ps. You should be able to find a S+W hammerless or shrouded-hammer stainless J frame like a 642 or 638 for $450 or less; comparable models from Taurus are about $100 lower.