new CHL holder needing advice for holster and gun

[Arride]

On the cheap, I liked the Kel Tec PF-9 and P-11 9MMs. However, not so much I didn't sell 'em recently to upgrade to a Rock Island Armory (RIA / Armscor) Compact Tactical 1911 in 45 ACP. I'm getting a Bianchi Black Widow (thumb break) outside the waistband holster in the mail, next I'll get a Don Hume inside the waistband holster. The 1911 is heavier and holds less rounds than most glocks or springfields, but I love it.

On the Springfield armory side, XDm compacts or subcompacts look great. Also the new XDs .45s have around the same shot capacity as the 1911 platform, are polymer and are really compact, great for carrying. I'll get an XDm in 9MM next, then maybe an XDs.

For home defense in general, not just CHL:

First, however, I'm going to buy a few AR lowers and an ASR (Aero Survival Rifle) in .45 with the 9MM conversion kit, with 22 conversion kits for both (though the ASR 22LR isn't available yet). I'd rather go this route than with shotguns because my wife will have access to the firearms as well.

The reason I think that the ARs and ASR are relevant in this discussion is because both can be set up in pistol calibers, especially useful if you're going to have a specific "carry" caliber. Even the HiPoint carbines aren't bad from what I've seen, though if it were possible I'd go with a Kel Tec P2000 before those. I think it's very useful (especially for someone with a less-than-hefty budget for firearms) I can stock up on my pistol ammo and also have my carbine / "longer gun" ammo for home defense and plinking.

I'm an inch taller and 30 lbs less than you are, but I find that concealment is all about how you dress and what position (sitting, standing, etc) you'll be in. If you want to know more about the holsters, check out YouTube video reviews and search for <holster> +forum on Google, that's netted me enough results to pick and choose well. On holsters, definitely do your due diligence and understand there are some cheaper products that work well and there are some expensive products that are not so great.

On that note, I'll never carry an Uncle Mike's holster again except to put a firearm in a bag. :)