"One of the reasons I don't CCW a 1911 is for this very reason: most of the folks I know who carry one for personal protection leave the hammer cocked at all times."
Condition two (hammer down on a round,1911) is a valid carry technique, but it definitely affects speed and stability of the draw stroke. It also adds a small motor skill to the stroke which when the adrenaline is flowing can be problematic.
"No one we have known, would EVER carry a weaopon with a round in the shute and have the hammer cocked. No purpose and recipe for no purpose. You may want to re-visit the discussion with your acquaintances."
I have heard this argument before. The idea of keeping funeral money in the 6th chamber of a peacemaker and such. The Israeli technique of drawing the pistol with the hammer down on an empty chamber and including a slide rack in the draw-stroke. All these apply to older technology. In the case of revolvers, hammer blocks keep a free falling hammer from striking the primer. In semi-autos, better metalurgy (the Israeli case) and firing pin blocks provide better "safety." Forged carbon steel or MIM parts from reputable manufacturers are sound and reliable.
Carrying a 1911 in condition 1 or "cocked and locked" calls for training, good equipment, Cooper's 4 rules thoroughly ingraned, and training.
Last point on the Sig DAK, it is likely the article misstated. The pistol has an external hammer, but no hammer spur. It rests in the down position flush with the back of the slide and never locks in the rearward position. A conventional Sig does have a decock lever as it is a DA/SA design.
Stay alert,
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I have two Sigs. The P226 in the nightstand and a P232 for carry. Both are always chambered but never cocked. But that's just my mentality.