I grew up with the 1911, the K and the N frame Smith and Wesson. I like a single action trigger, and like Tommy court, do not use the manual safety on the 1911. I also carry the 1911 C2, which in my opinion is the way that JMB in vision ed his creation to be carried. Remember the practices of the day, and the fact that JMB did not put a thumb safety on his creation until the US Calvary demanded one, but that is a discussion for another day.
My normal practice is to thumb cock to prepare to shoot, something I did until my like of the Kahr DAO pistols changed my ways. Personally, I like the K.I.S.S. principle, make it as easy as possible. No extra moves, such as cocking or swiping a safety.
I recently bought two pistols, the LCP II, and the American Compact. I like them because they are single action, the hammer or striker is fully cocked, the triggers are great, especially the American Compact! I have complete confidence that they will not fire unless the trigger is depressed. They are equipped with passive safeties.I do believe the holster is very important, don't get a generic one made to fit several pistols, but one specifically fitted to your pistol. I have mine made by MTR Custom Leather out of Ramser NC.
Whether or not you use a handgun with a manually equipped safety is a personal choice. What ever you choose practice with it until it's operation becomes second nature to you. Take some classes, can you operate it under duress when fine motor skills go away? Ever seen the movie Glory? There is a lot of truth to the scene where the soldier was having trouble loading his rifled musket when his commander was discharging his pistol next to him.
