I too have fired used and reloaded for dozens of handguns of all Brands. I could not say that there is a best handgun brand or caliber. Most all of them have strong and weak points either mechanically or just value wise. The Sigs have been one of the least owned by me but I had a Sig 220. and it was an excellent pistol. They are a little heavy but very accurate and very dependable. The Ruger although not as pretty and maybe not quite as accurate as some but plenty accurate for its designed use and absolutely the most rugged and dependable pistols That I have owned and I have had six or more of them. I have owned all of the Glocks except the baby ones. I found them quite accurate and dependable but can't handle the no safty or visable hammer. The Bretta and Taurus have also lived up to my expectations and I would buy one of them again. I have had almost all of the 1911's and all things considered I would choose the Springfield Armory because of its rugged build and good cost value. I like the Kimber but they are over priced for me as I can do most of the tricks needed to make the 1911 shine. I got very good service from the S&W autos that I have had which is most of the 9MM and 45's I think the Ruger revolvers are the top of the line as are the Dan Wessons. I like the Colts but again they are over priced IMO.

If you take everything into consideration. Cost, Dependability and accuracy they all have something to offer. For pure defense I would pick the Rugers. They just don't fail.