I offer the following for discussion purposes only.
About 20 years ago, the perfect carry pistol didn't exist. What I wanted was something safe to carry and packing immense knock down power. Then S&W came out with the solution.
With 7 .45ACP hollow point loads and round in the chamber, safety off carry in a stainless compact frame (something which would be dangerous in a S/A) they had the answer. (They also have D/A only autos, but having cut my teeth on a 1911, I'm not prepared to go there.)
I have the earlier version of the lower one. .40 Auto shown in center.


The double action is a little bit tricky at first, but I found that you just have to keep your eyes on that front sight throughout the entire firing process. Then it becomes easy.