RE: Best conceal carry pistol for self defence.
My carry pistol is a Steyr M40. Similar to the Glock but IMO better made. I like the trapazoid sights on this pistol. The only problem is that you can't get a concealed carry holster for this pistol unless you go the custom route. This plus the fact that I'm lefty didn't help. You may be able to find a Galco holster for it from someone who carries this brand but they have been dicontinued by Galco.
The XD comes in .40 and a compact version. You may also want to look at Para Ordanance that makes a 1911 type pistol in 9mm, 40 S&W and 45 ACP.
My advice is to look at a bunch of different brands and models and see what fits your hand the best and suits your needs for concealed carry.