re: If you always wanted a 1911 but could only have one handgun for eternity.....

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9mm is more popular for civilians because the recoil isn't as bad, but the 40 has more power

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The "power" difference is marginal.

In the grand scheme of things, with modern hollow point ammo, 9, 40, and 45 are all about the same. Will 1mm or 2mm in width make that big of a difference? I don't think it will, but if someone thinks it will then he or she should carry a 40 or a 45.

Will the extra bullet weight make a difference? Maybe... but 45 is considerably slower than 9mm. So if you take into account the heavier, slower 45 compared to the lighter, faster 9mm, the difference equals out. 40 S&W is the middle ground.

The difference in these rounds that is apparent is magazine capacity. I carry 9mm concealed because I get the most rounds possible. You can fit more 9mm in the same sized magazine. There's nothing wrong with carrying fewer rounds in a larger 40/45 caliber at all. It's just something to consider.

If you are forced to use FMJ ammo like the military is (but civilians should never use it for SD) then 45 would obviously be the best choice since it would make the biggest hole. When talking about expanding ammo, they're all about the same. It comes down to personal preference.

Now, when you get into the 10mm-357mag range, things change a bit because those have a very discernible difference in muzzle energy compared to your standard service calibers.

So, to sum up, carry what you practice with the most often. That will increase your chances of your fight or flight reactions saving your life one day.

And for the OP, if you want a gun that's fun to shoot and can also be carried some of the time, the SR1911 Commander would do fine with the right holster. Granted it is heavy, but it is also an extremely fun range gun. When shooting 45, nothing compares to the 1911.

The Shield will carry better but won't be as fun at the range. It will be more comfortable to carry though so there's a scale you have to weigh these options on.

So, for me, I'd probably get the 1911 since it almost fills the full size handgun role while also being slightly shorter. But if I wanted a dedicated carry gun, the Shield would be a better option.