IMO, the best platform for the .40 cal round. It was specifically designed for the .40, going from the folded carbon steel slides of the P226 (originally) and P228 to the milled stainless slide. If you purchase it in .40 or .357, you can use an aftermarket barrel to shoot 9 as well.
As it it metal framed, your options for grips are almost countless. Thicker, thinner, wood, aluminum, rubber, whatever. You will find grips that make the pistol just feel right in your hand.
The trigger options are varied as well. DAO, DAK, DA/SA. Then you can add the short reset trigger on the DA/SA (IMO, a must-have). Any of them can have a short reach trigger if your hands are smaller. If you really want, you can hunt down a serrated trigger.
Holsters are easy to find, sights can be changed to suit your preferences. Even though it's a metal framed, double stack pistol, with a proper belt and holster it's no problem to carry all day.
Parts and magazines are generally in easy supply. Note: use only Mec-Gar mags.
I think you just missed some nice used/CPOs from PSA at a good price. If you're patient, you'll find a good deal.
Here's my AD ('94) after a 3-gun:
Ultimately though, pistols are very personal. Find one to shoot and see if it suits you.