Another vote for S&W M&P.
Bud's Gun Shop has great prices on the 9mm and .40 - you just need to arrange for an FFL holder in your area to receive it for you (for a small transfer fee). Bud's has instructions on interstate ordering on their site.
If you want a 1911, check out the new one from Taurus (also on that Bud's page) A great value for a more-than your-basic-GI-model pistol.
FWIW, my son has a .40 Taurus 24/7 Pro for his daily carry piece, and loves it. I like the M&P grip & trigger better, YMMV.
.40's advantage over the 9mm is the availability of heavier rounds than are available for the 9, without the extra price of the .45 ACP. 165 or 180 grains penetrates better than the 125 to 147 grain 9mm premium ammo. 9mm is, however, the least expensive ammo out there in any halfway serious caliber.