Robert, I would recommend only Brass for more reliable performance as steel cased will cause more wear over the same amount of time shooting. If the reloads are your and you know what you are doing, fine. As far as conventional self defense ammunition, I highly recommend Hornady's Critical Defense : budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/cPath/656_2081_10000572/products_id/61043/Hornady%20CRITICAL%20DEFENSE%2045%20Automatic%20Colt%20Pistol%20(ACP)%20Crit/

it will work fine with all commercial 45acp ammo (brass, steel or aluminum) I shoot reloads in mine all the time (200 grain lead semi-wadcutter)yes it is a good carry gun with a proper holster and belt combo My EDC is a RIA compact 1911 45acp