It looks like I may have to figure out a way to get the wifes approval.
+1 on the above! Some people think that HK's are worth the extra cash, some don't. You will have to decide on that for yourself. I like em but will only buy them if I can find them at a really good price. Shop around you might find one at a really good price.
BTW FWIW I will interject my lowly personal preference for .45's:
1) The venerable 1911! You can pick one depending on your income (from RIA to Kimber to Nighthawk depending on finances) and since EVERY gunsmith in Texas knows these guns you can have it tuned to your preference.
AND
2) The Sig Sauer P220! I prefer the older German made guns, though the P220ST (stainless) is really sweet (I should know, I used to have one but sold it, stupid I know, long story). A very reliable system and accurate to boot. Parts are abundant and is probably the most popular Sig model out there, though I know the P226 and P229 are not far behind.
The above is respectfully submitted and is my own humble opinion.
Well, since I'm just recently a 1st time Colt owner, I didn't think I would have anything to add to this post but as of this morning, I think I do.
[SNIP]
Based on Colts parts policy and utter lack of customer service, you can bet this is the last Colt I'll ever buy.
Another option is a Sig P220, either the standard size or compact. Just make sure it is the newer external extractor version.