I was wondering what I should get for my first pistol? I decided on .45 acp but also want it for possible armed security or law enforcement if I was to get hired.

If your looking to use it for work you need to look into there sidearm requirements and limitations of what you can use and go from there.

jcb is right........you don't want to drop the $$ only to find out that your new pistol is not approved for your job.

That said, most departments I think recognize Glock, and they make some of the simplest, and most reliable ones out there. I forget which model is their .45? I know the sub is the mod30 but I don't know what the service model is?

If money is no object and they are Ok for your use, Kimber is about as good as it gets for a factory .45 1911 style pistol. PRobably any of their 4" Pro frame models would fit the bill nicely.

If you are willing to look outside the .45 to say a .40 I can personally vouch for the Springfield XD .40 service. I have about 1000 rounds through mine and use it for home defense and carry and it has performed flawlessly and is quite accurate. No goofy safeties, cocking and loaded chamber indicators as well if you find yourself in complete darkness wondering if your locked and loaded.

Get a SIG!

Make sure you don't get something you will be unhappy with. I'm talking about calibers here. If you don't like the way a .45 kicks, you shouldn't get one.

If you can, find a range where you can rent the use of a gun or two. I tried a 9mm Glock at the range and was hooked, same day I got a Springfield XD-9 in 9mm and would highly recommend the XD.

The 1911 is still the best .45 slug launcher out there, however the only way to carry a 1911 so that it it is ready for use when drawn is 'cocked and locked' which most LEO departments and uniformed sheeple in general aren't going to like very much because it looks threatening and dangerous.

I switched over to the 45 acp about 5 years ago and have tried 1911 (Colts, Kimbers and Les Baer), Sig, H&K and Glock. H&K is still my carry piece daily, it points great and has been reliable. Of the various 1911's only the Baer has run 100% reliable.

Rick.......I like the H&k also....

I know there are smaller H&Ks in .45, but the only I ever shot was the Mark23. It had very little muzzle flip, was very easy to shoot straight, but the dang thing was large and heavy, not to mention expensive! Wouldn't really care to carry one of those around all day.