My recommendation as well. Having owned and shot the Gov't 1911 in 9mm, 38 Super, 38/45 and .45, you would be hard pressed to find a better auto handgun assuming you purchase one of the better quality ones. The DA trigger on an auto with an exposed hammer is un-necessary IMO. Another thing, if you get into reloading, chasing brass can be a drag. I usually shoot sixguns almost exclusively now because of that. Reloading the 9mm is also a drag, most "good" loads are compressed, so the possibility of spilling powder causing inconsistent loads is a problem. I don't know about the .40, short case could be the same. The 9mm is great for burning cheap surplus ammo. The.40 S&W is supposed to be a step up from the 9mm without the punishment of the 10mm.
My .02
And for those discounting the possibility of defending one's family, home and property, remember Col. Cooper's first rule of gunfighting: Have a gun.