If the question is which cartridge has the best balance for power, shooting fast, concealing, accuracy, psychological effect, defensible in court, capacity, affordable ammo for practice, availability of ammo, bang for the buck, use by LE and military, ergonomics, use in competition and popularity, then the answer would be elusive.
But if the question is whether the choice of handgun loads affects stopping power, then the answer should be a clear yes. I believe it's undisputed that big game handgun hunters use heavy large diameter bullets of solid construction with velocities around 1100 fps to stop big tough animals.
But if the question is whether the choice of handgun loads affects stopping power, then the answer should be a clear yes. I believe it's undisputed that big game handgun hunters use heavy large diameter bullets of solid construction with velocities around 1100 fps to stop big tough animals.