9mm carry gun... ok, this is not what you were asking for, but
I say the heck with what the friends carry. I feel strongly about
this as a superb defensive carry gun:
Glock 19
That would be my choice no matter what the price.
Superb reliability, accuracy, capacity, perfect size,
amazing aftermarket support and parts availability
everywhere. Wonderful simplicity, same trigger
pull for every shot, moderate price. Pop in a G17 mag
for 18 rounds on tap when around the house, pop in
a G19 mag for 16 rounds on tap for carry with the
G17 mag as a spare.
I've got a number of wonderful 1911s and Hi-powers
and I love em all, but for carry duty, in 9mm, I would
pick the G19... I think it's the one Glock that pretty much
everyone should have.