45 acp is a great round but it's more expensive than 9 mm even if you reload. The cheaper the ammo the more you can practice. Plus carrying a 1911 all day is a workout. I'd rather carry a lighter pistol with 16 rounds over a heavier one with only 8.
My glock 19 loaded with 16 124 gr rounds is 30.7 Oz. My Kimber Custom II is 38 Oz without a magazine.
An LCP with a lasermax is a nice package. I got one for my sister to carry.