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I have had a Kel-Tec P3AT for a long time now. It's been my "better than nothing" gun for those times when I don't want to carry anything big or heavy. I recently bought an LCP II to see if it might make sense to upgrade. The trigger on the LCP is a lot better, but to be honest I shoot it and my Kel-Tec about the same (both better than I expected given their size). So I'll probably just keep the Kel-Tec and sell the Ruger. Both of these guns are a pain to shoot. I also have a Glock 42 that is more accurate than either of the other two, and a ton more fun to shoot. But it's also bigger.

For a "longer barrel" gun, I would recommend the CZ line. Their RAMI is roughly the same size as a Glock 26, and is a much better gun, IMHO. It's hard to go wrong with that choice. Getting bigger, you could get the CZ 75 Compact, and then CZ 75 full size. You could also go with the Glock line or the Sig line, or the Walther line, or Springfield Armory, or Smith & Wesson. They all have guns in sub-compact, Compact, and full size versions. Staying with one maker also usually gives you a degree of magazine compatibility (the larger ones will just stick out the bottom if you put them in a smaller version). You also get a similar manual of arms, and breakdown procedure. You really can't go all that wrong with any of the major gun makers. Most of your proficiency will come from you, not the gun. So practice with whatever you get. Range time is good, shooting competitions and formal training are better.

Or you could make the jump to 1911's. I have a lot of guns, and the one that is most often on my hip is a CCO size 1911. That works for me. Something else might work better for you. Guns are like women (or men - not judging anyone's preferences). What's best for me, might not be the one you would choose for you.