In the qual for the M9 Glock suffered for not having a factory up and running in the US. They have one now, so they will probably be in the running. Maybe a G22 with a decent trigger...
M&P should also be in the running.
I don’t have any flameproof underwear so I will not comment on whether an accurate 1911 is cost effective, reliable solution.
One way or another, grab your popcorn, this will be fun to watch.
I have multiple Berettas of one model or another. The ones I value most are the ones made in Italy. You can see and feel the difference.
I have an M&P .40 and a 1911.
I find the standard 1911 easier to shoot and reacquire the target.
Perhaps its the shitty trigger that the M&P has.