First let me say that my chosen caliber for hunting deer is .44 remington magnum. I have used .454 casull also. I would not hesitate to use the .45 acp for deer at bow ranges, 25-35 yds. I think i would use a 230 grain hydrashok. In defense of the 9mm, i believe it is capable of stopping quite well with +p+ ammo if you do your part and put it where it's supposed to go. I carry a Glock 26 sometimes and hit very well with it. I do however usually carry a Glock 21 or 30 with corbon +p ammo. I really like hunting in dense woods from a treestand with a scoped handgun. You can shoot in almost any direction without the twisting and movement required with a rifle.