Hard to go wrong with a 1911 platform. So many easy non-race mods to help with accuracy and gun handling.
Just looked at a Ruger 1911 yesterday and it seemed a nice solid handgun.
The CZ's, as well, are popular with the 9mm crowd.
IDPA has just started up locally, where I can use my 4" Police Positive or the 4" M29. I like that idea.