In regards to the original question, I would get a Kimber as far as the brand. I must admit that I am somewhat biased torwards them, but customer service has been top notch in my experience (Meprolight night sights.) I can also say that with Wilson Combat magazines that I have honestly never had a malfunction with factory ammo. Reloads are a different story, but you shouldn't be using them anyhow for home defense. Definitely, I would choose a full-size 5" barrel. The most velocity available, less felt recoil, and if push comes to shove, the solid steel 1911 held in a firing grip can be a club if needed. Mounted flashlights are ok, in my opinion, however batteries fail, go dead, etc., so I keep a Streamlight hand-held close in case the gun mounted fails. I'm sure that other brands (Para, Colt, Springfield Armory, etc) will serve your needs just as well. Whatever you choice, be sure to practice with the gun in mock drills around the house (safely), especially the thumb safety. Hope this helps some.