So I've been considering a gun for woods/hiking/carry hunting(sidearm use, not primary weapon). Thinking something more than my current line up of 9 mm would be better suited.
Keep in mind I'm in SC. We've got some black bear, pigs, a few scattered mountain lions, coyotes and feral dogs, two legged varmints, etc. I don't exactly need to fend off grizzlies and rampaging rabid moose here. And I'm NOT a fan of revolvers, I'd like an autoloader.
So what auto loading caliber works here? 10mm? Would 45 be sufficient?
Also to consider. Full size? Compact?