I realize this thread is several years old at this point, but I’m surprised no one has mentioned Colt. I paid $900ish for a Competition Stainless and love it. Yes, it’s $100 over the OP’s price point, but it’s damn fine. So much so that I’m buying a Gold Cup Trophy Elite and am looking for a Delta Elite (though that’s 10mm).
I’ll love one of the Current Sigs, including their Ultra Compact, though I’m sure the Compact has one heck of a kick. I’d like plenty other 1911s too.