getting a pistol in CT

[megaladon6]

i'm looking at getting my pistol permit (while i still can) and was wondering if anyone knew a good dealer in CT. i live in ridgefield and work in danbury, but of course i have no problems driving much farther.
i'm also taking suggestions on what pistol. i'm partial to 1911 based models, definitely no smaller than a .40, something that takes abuse and is relatively accurate, but not expensive.
it will technically be a defensive weapon, but i really don't expect to use it for more than killing paper targets.
thanks
BTW, i have no problem with a well cared for used weapon.