I started out with a 1911 when I was 8 years old. The only handgun that I am deadly accurate with every time. I love the way it feels in my hand, and the way it shoots. However, a .45ACP does not have the power that a .357 does. It is a big, slow bullet. It works fantastic against the 2 legged animals, but not so great with the bigger, more dangerous kind, like the silvertip grizzly and the moose. Where I live, I carry a 9mm for the simple fact that I can have more extra ammo options when I go to the city. My 1911 is mainly for practice, and part of a bug out option because, like you stated, it is rugged and will stand up to most environments.