I have revolvers, but prefer the 1911 Nothing like a 1911 trigger.
S&W 1911 5" / Colt Commander / SA Range Officer Compact
which all seem from what the O.P. has stated would be a reach
budget wise.
I also have a CZ 75B 9x19 14+1 - having the option of Condition One
is a plus, though I usually manually drop the hammer for a DA first shot.
Cast Steel frame & slide, hammer forged barrel. the curve of the
backstrap fits my hand & it's uber reliable & accurate..
MIne was just over $ 500 so it should be on your
short list
FWIW - the CZ 75B may look in appearance to have a
resemblance to the Browning Hi Power, however, except
the tilting barrel lockup and high cap. mag. that's about
it. The triggers are completly different in design, and
the 75B reverse slide / rails relationship - has a lineage
with the famed Sig P210.