I realize this is an old post, but thought I'd respond anyway. I carry a 4" 1911 45, only its converted to a 45 super. Loaded with Buffalo Bore 230 gr trunjcated cone that have a huge meplat which chrony's right at 1030fps, not only do I carry a 1911 daily but shoot one very regularly. And I feel very confident in my ability to hit what I shoot at, which I feel is a key factor. Most guy's that carry one of the huge handguns don't shoot them enough to be proficient with them. We don't have a lot of big bears where I live but do have some.
Bob