I'm a big fan of the Colt 1911 with 230 grain rounds. In close quarters, it packs the punch required. Anything outside 30 meters I'm going to a long rifle.
I like shooting mine at 100 yards. One area where I shoot is like a large 100 yard sand crater, deep, sand pulled out for roads and such. Shooting at a paint can is great fun getting the can to dance. Even when I miss, and I miss a lot at 100 yards, there is a gratifying explosion of sand, which I figure scares the hell out of the paint can, if nothing else. I've tried it with Sigs, 226, 228, in 9mm and the effect isn't the same.