I have no experience with the P-97, but do own a P-90 and owned a 1911. I bought my P-90T brand new last March for $325 and it is an amazing gun. Reliable as all get out. Probably would feed rocks if I would load them in the magazine. Accuracy is phenominal (sp?). The most accurate DA/SA I have ever shot. At 20 yds. I managed a 1/2" group fired offhand at a moderate pace, using Triton 230gr HiVel jhp's. IMO the gunn looks bigger than it is. I carry mine concealed in IWB holster. Not bashing the 1911, but they can be a finicky lot, and I may own one again. But am also considerring the P-97 as a second 45acp to have. If you do get a 1911 I would stick with Colt and Springfield, and that comes from many knowledgable people, both gunsmiths and shooters.