Unless you're rolling in cash, you might want to wait and see what that competition might be. Saying that, for a high quality, entry level gun, the Springfield XDM 5.25 in 9mm is becoming quite popular in IDPA.He has not decided on type of comp, just knows he wants to move up.
He wants to shoot a 1911.45 and I will let him there but it is not on the table to get for him because of the possible injuries to wrist and elbow.