In the same boat as you, I went with a Marvel conversion for my 1911. I now have a gun that handles and feels just like my primary pistol, is as accurate as a premium .22LR (I use it for police league where it keeps pace with the Model 41's and Pardini's), and shoots bulk ammo (with a 10lb. spring) as reliably as target ammo.
You may not save a whole bunch of money if you buy a Marvel, but I feel the training benefit of using your work gun for another purpose is worth it.