Stay away from anything high point.......they don't even make good trotline weights!
AMEN! I think HiPoint uses some sort of pot metal material in their guns; maybe melted down matchbox cars?. You'd NEED the lifetime warranty with one.
Like Dan suggested, keep your eye out for a good used Ruger Blackhawk (.357, .41, or .45)or Super Blackhawk in 44 mag. You'll have a solid sidearm that'll last longer than you with little maintenance. Any of the above calibers are much better for the tasks you need done than the ones you list. Shop around for deals and if those found are higher than you can do now, save until you can. You'll be glad you did.
I see you said you like autos. Unfortunately, any auto capable of doing the job are extremely costly; cheapest probably being the Glock 20 in 10mm. the Desert Eagles are capable guns, but run on the other side of a grand usually.
Good luck in your search and remember to bring any questions right here. The guys here are a wealth of info.