quietguy

That is correct, if you were born after '69 IIRC. I believe you can get a one-time one year waiver. Game wardens have started checking these in the last few years. If it is on record with TWRA, it will show on your license. If not, you have to have your card.

Sounds like you have already figured out the problem. You could be on the right track with a switch issue, but it could be several things.

First, I am a huge fan of the SA XDsc's . I have shot the .40, and it will likely be my next purchase. Second, I am very careful about changing the manual of arms of my carry guns, with one exception (the Kahr PM9). I have two carry rotations, one based on the 1911, the other based on the HK MOA. The HK is my primary rotation. When possible, I carry either a USP Compact 45, or a HK 45C. Both are Variant 1's. When I need something a little smaller, I have a P2000SK Light LEM 9mm. I can use the same holsters for all three, but had to choose carefully. I also have a 1911 rotation, but will practice before putting it in play. I don't like to switch back and forth, without practice. I have 5", 4.25", and 3.5" 1911s that I carry based on a variety of factors. I am not crazy about throwing the Kahr into the mix, but like having the option when needed. The SA EMP has, from what I can tell, have a great reputation. The issues that I have seen can easily be fixed with a little "fluff and buff". I would stay away from most of the other 3" 1911 variants. IMHO, you see a lot more issues with the shorter barreled 1911 variants than you do with Commander style and full-size offerings. My experience bears this out, but there are always exceptions. If you are serious about carrying a .45, then I would look at something like the Sig C3. There may be a few other similar options on the market,so it may be worth exploring. It is very similar to the old Colt CCO, and is a great carry option. Commander length slide, and an Office length receiver. I am in the process of reliability testing a C3, and so far it has been flawless. Time will tell. I have high hopes that it will be the perfect carry gun for my purposes. As much as I hate to admit it, the Glock G30SF is an incredible platform. 10+1 rounds of .45ACP in a fairly small package is pretty hard to beat.

Please expand on your comment. While there are some ballistic similarities to .40 SW +P, the .357SIG is a whole different animal in terminal performance, especially at range. I am a huge fan of the .40SW for personal defense. It, IMHO, is the best balance of stopping power, penetration, and magazine capacity. For the purpose of sheer penetration, the .357 SIG and 10mm are superior.

My hunting guns stay in a safe, unloaded. My defense setup is generally in quick access safes (bio or touchpad). The one exception is a shotty that I keep by the bedside. When the niece and nephews come over, it gets a trigger lock. Once they are gone, it goes away. Not worth taking a chance.