My 22 target pistols (Hi Standard, Browning) are accurate in my hand at 25 yards but then they are a 22. Can put 9-10, rounds out in a hurry and in a decent group under 25 yards.
However, my model P cimarron in 44-40 and 32-20 at 25 yards, 6 rounds, into cardboard person and maybe 1 or 2 get in the target and not a killing shot. And that is if they are not shooting back.
Close range nothing like an auto shotgun with no plug.
And yes, over the 25 yards one needs a rifle (30 caliber) and that only makes common sense. Unless your name is Dillion. Just need to practice more as i am sure there are some here who can shoot with their pistols like Dillion can.
I am sure i will never find out.
And trust me, a 223 in an AR 16 was worthless in Nam. Same as the grease gun in 45 short. Now our 175mm and 8 inch cannon could do some damage even with only the powder in the barrel (burn) db