I bought Examples and Explanations for Torts, Civil Procedure and Contracts. I got them on Half.com, so I spent $40 for the three books (including shipping). It wasn't a huge investment.
I planned to look over the introductory chapters in all three, but I've gotten hung up on contracts. Contracts are so cool!
I've decided to wait on outlines until I know which professors I have. Just about everybody I've talked to has recommended Gilberts and Emmanuels, though.