Thanks for all the advice guys. After going to the range and testing out the guns in question, I ended up buying a Sig P226R .40cal. The S&W MP .40/XD-40 both shot great, the Sig just felt better IMO...all shot similar groupings. I tried the P229 but it was a tad-bit small for my liking...easier to carry, but the grip didn't fit my hand as well as the full-size P226R. I also filled out the necessary paperwork for a concealed pistol license and I can pick it up in 30 days. M2, regarding what you said about the process in Texas, I was surprised that I didn't have to attend a class. I just paid $60, they took my fingerprints, I filled out a one-sided sheet and that was it.