"...the .45 ACP is outdated for basic self defense..." That's more about the mag capacity fad than anything else. I've always found the .45 to be far more pleasant to shoot than the 9mm. And a 1911A1 fits my hand where no DA 9mm comes even close.
"...incidents with wild animals..." A great deal depends on what critter and what bullet one is using. Ball(as in an FMJ) isn't the best thing for dealing with unruly fauna. Isn't great for the two legged varmints either. Dogs you shoot in the head.
The best handgun for any kind of shooting is the one you shoot best, regardless of its chambering.
"...incidents with wild animals..." A great deal depends on what critter and what bullet one is using. Ball(as in an FMJ) isn't the best thing for dealing with unruly fauna. Isn't great for the two legged varmints either. Dogs you shoot in the head.
The best handgun for any kind of shooting is the one you shoot best, regardless of its chambering.