I agree that you need to shoot something and find a weapon you're proficient with to carry - for me, that weapon is a 1911. I'm 6'2" and about 195 lbs so concealing even a officer sized 1911 is a bit tricky in shorts and a t-shirt but it can be done. The 1911 fits my hands perfectly and I have seen the most success at the range with a SA platform... plus they're just sexy.
I have saved a TON of money making my own IWB leather/kydex hybrid holsters, if you're going to be switching from polymer pistols to 1911s, chances are you're going to end up like me - changing guns as often as you change undies; check my tutorial on how to make those holsters and practice. Finding a good gun to carry shouldn't be determined by shooting it a few times; I feel that carrying it for a month or two really provides the most insight and lets me make a truly informed decision.