S&W M&P .45C or 1911PD
I have both, and a full size M&P .45 as well.
The 1911PD is S&W's variation on the Colt Lightweight Combat Commander (full size scandium alloy frame and grip with a 4.25in bbl and slide). It is a thin and light 1911 variant and mine has been flawless through several thousand rounds.
I also have two .45 M&Ps (full size and compact) both have thumb safties because I've shot 1911 pattern guns for over 45 years. Its what I know and what I am comfortable with. The .45 compact M&P is a 4in bbl., the full size is 4.5. The grip on the .45c is about 3/4 inch shorter in the backstrap than the one on the M&P full size. I use the "small" grip inserts on both M&Ps.
BTW, compared to the 9mm/.40cal M&P compacts, the .45C is 1/2 in longer in both the slide and the grip back strap, and marginally wider.
Hold the M&P .45C next to the 1911PD and you see 2 pistols that each hold 8 round mags, with slides almost exactly the same length; longer sight radius on the M&P; thinner slide on the 1911PD; shorter and thinner grip frame on the M&P (assuming standard grip pannels on the 1911PD).
The 1911PD has a lighter, crisper trigger. The M&P 45C is softer shooting.
I have all 3 and all have been totally reliable. I rotate carrying them depending on the needs and conditions of the moment.
As always, YMMV.
Good luck!
Dennis
