I have two option for field carry (field carry is that back-up sidearm when hunting with a ML or bow - yes, that's legal here - and the one that goes along while fishing, camping, etc.).
.357 Magnum or .44 Special. The .357 is a GP100, 4". The .44 is a 5-shot Charter Arms Bulldog.
The .357 is heavy, but built like a tank. The Charter is small, light, and strong enough for .44 Special loads. I'm thinking that there isn't much that a .429" 225 to 245 grain LSWC couldn't handle that a 180-200 grain .358" could.
you pretty much got it right with your own statements. I remember brian pearce talking about a .44special round that went clear through an elk, which should be sufficient for most anything other than the great bears.
