I got out of the funny green clothes in 1991. My dream pistol the whole time was a Beretta 92. In the spring of 1994 I finally could afford one and I still own it. By all standards it is a well built pistol. Having said that, there are a few that I would purchase before it. Take a look at the HK P7M8, HK P2000, Springfield .45 Operator.
The fact is the Beretta is a great pistol, mine has fired several thousand rounds, no malfunctions that weren't my fault, and every kind of ammo you can imagine. It is now 10 years old. I've never had a part replaced, in fact I named it old faithful.
As a carry piece it is on the large side. I purchased a Galco shoulder holster for it and that seems to be the best way to carry it. I typically carry it in the fall and winter. Spring and summer is reserved for something smaller like the P7M8 or a Glock 26.
10 years later if I were to purchase a full size pistol I would take a hard look at a .45, but you could alway buy both :)
Good luck