IMO, the "top" compact 9mm is the custom ASP from Paris Theodore;
www.ASP9mm.com . This design based on the out of production S&W model 39 9mm was made for covert ops/intel work but quickly got notice with many other "quiet professionals". The Wiki page or research can explain all of the ASP features. Some older custom ASP pistols can be had on sites like
www.gunsamerica.com and
www.gunbroker.com . The limited ed Coal Creek Armory ASP2000 based on a S&W 3913 was good but Im not sure if they do gunsmith packages on customer S&W pistols.
Other great compact 9mm & .45acp pistols include the SIG Sauer P250 compact(a DAK type polymer frame), the HK45 compact(lem), and the HK P2000sk in lem. If you want a good compact single action .45acp or 9mm and have the $$$, check out the Colt Defender models.
If you are an entry level target shooter or starting out, I'd suggest a well made DA only system like the SIG DAK or HK lem(law enforcement modification). DA only pistols avoid snags and hassles. They also prevent false or unfair claims of ADs(discharges) in critical incidents. Many LE agencies like the NYPD, the US Border Patrol, etc have issued or authorized DA only weapons for many years.