There are many factors to consider when purchasing a handgun.
A good strat is to answer what are you going to use it for? concealed carry, home, hunting?
All this may be academic to you, if you use many models and styles already, or have very specific performance requirements.
So considering real effectiveness, after reviewing spktyr's posts [http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1599133/posts?q=1&&page=101], my parting shot here is in consideration of what really, really works.
A long barreled .357 works pretty well in the field, and ranch. It only holds 6 or perhaps 7 rounds. Resupply not particularly improbable. Pack o' dogs, whatever, you may be in trouble, but this may be offset by less muzzle rise, good for repeat fire. The .44 works well even with a shorter barrel, because it is simply larger, heavier, in relation to desired effect upon the "target." May require less rounds expended for desired result. Much bigger, heavier instrument, though. Such is life.
I expect the 10mm Auto to gain popularity since Glock has apparently made a reliable pistol, according to reports from users. However, no snakeshot, rare ammunition (so far), and all the liabilities of a semi-auto vs. a revolver.
Enjoy the free lunch.