I'm looking at getting my first handgun for a hunting sidearm/backup but where I hunt, there is the ever-present risk of running into a marijuana grow site. I have found them on several occasions, and with just my -06, I felt a pretty nervous as many of these grows are operated by cartels. I want something that is adequate at dispatching a hog or deer at close range, but with enough capacity if, god forbid, I surprised a group of angry growers. I'm going back at forth between a Rock Island Tactical 1911 in .45 acp and a ruger revolver in 357 or 45LC. I'm familiar with both semi autos and revolvers, and generally prefer revolvers for their accuracy and feel. The 1911 on the other hand has more holster options and lots of aftermarket parts. I'm in CA, so high cap magazines for a glock or similar handgun are not an option. What are your thoughts? I'm on a budget, but I do want a quality firearm that will last a lifetime.
Let me straighten you out on what you just said here by correcting an error in your posting:
"...with just my -6, any person I encounter should feel pretty nervous that I am fully able to dispatch any living creature at my discretion, be it hog, deer, bad guy in body armor, but..."
Given the choice between a rifle and a handgun, the rifle beats the handgun hands down in terms of range and effectiveness. (Let's not get into arguments like "what about a .22 rifle, then?" The OP has stated he's hunting with an -06, let's go with that.)
Now, that said, there is value to having a good handgun whenever hunting, be it for four or two legged critters. For one, It's very difficult to climb a tree with a rifle in your hands when that p*ssed off hog you just wounded on your last rifle shot decides to try gnawing your leg off.
As with all self-defense handgun issues, whatever you choose to carry should be something that fits YOUR hand, is RELIABLE, and has enough power to do what you want it to do...such as take down that angry wounded hog.
Anything that will take down that angry, wounded hog is very likely well suited to taking down an angry two-legged critter, too.