50 yards? Probably 99% of modern day shootings/shootouts come no where near that distance in regards to pistols. In fact, most happen with a few feet. In that case being that close, you want the threat down and out of the game as fast as possible.
This is SHTF, not your daily shooting.
Or stated another way: is it really a SHTF situation in this context if they are yet 50+ yards out?
I agree but in a truly tshtf scenario being able to hunt is useful as well as the ability to at least make people duck and stay back at range has its merits too
If i knew id never have to engage a target at distance them yeah, 45 would probably me my choice