I'm a big 1911 fan. My "small" carry is a Sig 938 which is a baby 1911 in 9mm. Cocked and locked with one in the spout is the only way to go. The 938 shoots really well for a small gun, but the mags are a bear to load. The last two rounds are hard as you know what to get stacked. My "big" carry is a Kimber Super Carry Pro.