Well, your only somewhat reasonably priced and practical choices larger than a 9mm are basically 357 Sig, 40, 10mm, and 45 ACP. I don't personally like the 357 Sig because the brass is tricky to reload and a 125 grain bullet in 357 Sig and 40 are just about identical ballistics wise. The 10mm is a great round but ammo is scarce for it and high priced. So I guess I would recommend something like a Glock Mdl 22 in 40 caliber. This is a rugged, reliable pistol with a 15 round mag. So, with one in the chamber that's 16 rounds and enough firepower to bring down about anything you might encounter on this continent short of a bison, moose, or grizzly and the 40 with a 180 grain bullet is a pretty potent stopper. Next choice would be a quality 1911 clone in 45. I'm a part time deputy and carry both on duty, also a Kahr PM40 as the mood strikes, and a 41 mag revolver when a really bad situation is expected. For bumming around in the desert my absolute must carry is my S&W six inch barrel revolver in 41 mag. Regardless, the main thing is learning to shoot whatever you get to the best of your ability. As for brands of autos, take a good look at Taurus which, IMO, has the best quality for the price. I do love my Taurus PT 1911! BTW, my forebears settled St.Onge, SD way back when and I grew up in that neck of the woods starting in 1934.
