So Caleb wants a new gun.

Based upon his preferences and requirements, I would say either the M&P or the XD(m).

Glock? No. He likes 1911’s and while they both enjoy a favorable aftermarket, the Glock is just different enough in ergos from a 1911 that it may not be enjoyable or may take time to adjust to.

Sig? No. He wants to shoot the gun in competition, and that first DA shot is going to suck. He could practice a lot, but still it’s going to suck.

Wheelgun? Nothing wrong with it, but such a different manual of arms (tho I’m sure Caleb put that there to be silly).

So it’s down to the XD(m) and M&P.

The XD is likely to have a closer manual of arms and ergos to his beloved 1911’s. But depending what exactly he’ll be doing with this, going with the M&P might be worthwhile because in the law enforcement sector you can get good prices, good support products. Both have a strong enough aftermarket, parts, custom work (e.g. Springer Precision for XD work), and reputation. I like both guns, but have an XD bias. 🙂