Very well said RM, BD and FJ. The 1911 is a great pistol hence it's almost 100yr history BUT it is not the safest design on todays market. (accuracy yes but safety no).

The Glock, like the revolver (which is regarded as a generally safe firearm) has no external safety. The 5.5 lb trigger pull is in essence the safety. But like ALL firearms safety is of paramount importance regardless of the weapon chosen.

A 1911 style would not be my first choice in a novices hands. The light single action trigger on the 1911 lends itself to AD's in the wrong hands (nervous or scared) while the glock needs a more deliberate trigger pull.

I have seen 2 NEW Springfield 1911's go automatic on people because of a sear problem and 1 1911 had the hammer fall on my Bro in law after jacking a round which resulted in an AD with no injury.