There are some super-stout loads out there for backwoods carry in 9/40/45, that ain’t a 10mm or a 44, but that you can shoot in something lighter than those or any steel 357. A hard cast 147gr 9mm will penetrate plenty, as will the 40/45 loads. Energy isn’t gonna help you much anyway. Just carry something to break the bones you’re liable to have in front of you, and you’ll be fine.