re: SA 1911 or Sig p229 for first handgun

Between the two guns you're looking at, I'd go w/ the 1911. Personally, I prefer a SAO over a SA/DA gun. As far as weight, they're pretty close. Recoil wise, the 9mm does recoil less than the 45, but the 45 is still manageable, especially w/ sufficient training. 9mm ammo is also a little cheaper than 45. I get the feeling you'll prolly end up w/ a second/different gun for concealed carry some months down the road. In the meantime, the 1911 is hard to beat as a range gun. Even though the SA has an aluminum frame, it's highly unlikely it won't stand up to the rigors of a range gun.

If you do end up cc the 1911, be SURE to get adequate training w/ it's manual of arms as it is more complicated than DAO. I guess it's just me, but the manual of amrs for DA/SA/decockers guns is confusing.