IMHO, the Detonics Combat Master, shooting 185 grain hollow points, has the gentlest recoil of any compact .45 that I have ever shot. Price is competitive, style is timeless and parts are plentiful. Mine has been my carry piece since 1985.
The secret is the triple-wound captive recoil spring. Even a ham-handed klutz like me can field strip it in 30 seconds without tools. Besides, a lot of them were made locally. A lot of folks are surprised when I point out the "Made in Seattle" roll stamp.