I'm 6'2" and just over 200 lbs. I can conceal a full size 1911 pretty easy. I carried a Colt Goverment for a long time till I got my new Springfield XDM with a 4.5 inch barrel, and that is about as "small" as I want to go. My hands are bigger than average, and anything smaller than that XD feels like I'm holding a twig. I like the extra weight that the longer barrels add as well. (In case you are wondering, my wife now has the Colt!!)

I've always liked the .45 caliber. And I'll be honest, its partly about the way the end of that muzzle looks if you are looking at the business end of the gun -- pretty impressive and persuasive. I'm anxious to get my TRP, and get back to the 1911 style. Nothing wrong with the XD, just prefer the 1911. The XD will still see some time while I am hiking though.

That being said, I completely agree with the statement that ANY gun is better than NO gun.

I say carry what you trust!