re: SA 1911 or Sig p229 for first handgun

Most of the OB I feel is going to say 1911, but I think you're going to carry more than you first see yourself doing.
I say Sig.
Plenty of time to buy a full size 1911 later on down the road, and you'll have room in your budget to buy ammo, grips, etc.

Either way, lookin' forward to shootin' with you! Can't wait to get my M&P.