My 2 favorite handguns are a 1911 and a S&W 44 Mag.

I have carried both a lot in the woods. Speer Shotshells form either are great snake killers, as well as killers of squirrels, rabbits, grouse and other small game for the pot. I killed 2 squirrels opening week of deer season with my 4" 44 Mountain Gun and the Speer shotshells, I have already ate them...

I have used Speer shot shells in 38 and 9mm as well and they work pretty good too.

In bear country I prefer the 44 Mag, and I carry it most of the time while deer hunting as well.
The wife carries her 44 Mag Mountain gun whenever she is in the field, and has killed a bunch of small game and snakes with Speer shotshells.

I would prefer the 45 ACP in a 1911, for 2 legged varmints most of the time, but the 44 Mag, with several speedloaders will work...