I have to cast a vote for the ancient .45 Colt. Using a modern action and good handloads you can easily match the .44 mag performance and have a larger frontal area. It's a compromise between the .44 and .454, but in the end, you will not be wrong buying any of the 'major' handgun calibers.
Unless you are a very good shot and limit ranges, I'd avoid the .357. It certainly has the killing ability, but the larger calibers will do the job with more authority. .41 mag, .44 Mag, .45 colt, .454 all will do a great job and all can be loaded down for economical practice and less pounding, although a pistol chambered lever gun can't be too bad.