Help me decide between these guns...

[Agent-J]

I went to the shop today and I think I have narrowed it down between the following guns...

HK45c
XD 45 compact
1911 in 4"/4.25" model
SA EMP 9mm


-HK45c
Never shot, but fit in the hand well, DA/SA is nice, better than average fit and finish, light weight, same size as 4" 1911. BUT, it's plastic, $900 and relatively bigger.

-XD45 compact
Shot this last weekend, liked it. A bit uninspiring and funny shaped. Would probably be pretty average.

-1911
Shot a 5" model last weekend, liked it alot. Classic style, looks sharp. Shorter .45 1911's have reliability issues, and it weighed alot. Full size frame is largest of all compared guns and lower bullet count.

-SA EMP 9mm
Shot the .40cal version last weekend and it jammed up a few times, but this was a demo pistol. Everyone seems to love or hate this gun. Small size great for ccw, but almost too small. This gun looks amazing. Cheaper ammo.

 

[Walkalong]

My EMP is awesome. If you want a small 1911 style 9MM you can't go wrong with one. (The EMP is almost a 1911)

I do love my 1911's and I have them in several flavors (9MM, .38 Super & .45) and barrel lengths. (3". 4", 4 1/4", & 5")

 

[texgunner]

I'm a fan of the 1911 type pistol. I have a Colt Commander(4.25") and a Springfield Armory Champion(4") and both have been reliable with jacketed bullets.

Tex

 

[CPshooter]

My vote goes for the XD compact. Solid construction, utter reliability, and 10+1 rounds of .45acp with the compact magazine. I also love how they point so naturally and feel so good in my hand. For $500, you just can't beat it.

 

[benderx4]

Shot the .40cal version last weekend and it jammed up a few times

But it sure is sexy looking, isn't it? Kind of pricey too.

XD45c is a fine weapon, I have one in 9mm. Can't go wrong with this one.

HK45c - this would be my first choice if you have the bucks. Modern, reliable, accurate, comfortable, DA/SA with decocker, low recoil, easy to clean, and tough. If you get the chance, shoot one of these babies, and you won't have any problems with your decision.

1911 - timeless, historical, classic -
great gun, everyone should have one in their safe. Heavy, low round count, reliability issues with shorter barrel lengths. Wouldn't bet my (or my family's life) on one.

Good luck and happy shooting!

 

[Storm]

HK45, then the 1911.