Yup, I love the small calibers. I have had a beautiful vintage little Beretta 418 .25 auto (too small?) for many years and took it along on many remote camping/fishing trips (it was about all I had for a pistol).
I even pulled it it for self defense once against a good size angry rattle-snake. I didn't have to shoot though, as it ended in a stand-off, and I was able to back (run) away- and the snake went on it's own way.
More recently, I bought a NIB Bersa model 86- (1996 vintage, designated as an "undercover" model- all steel & heavy, Houge type wrap-around grips) .380 auto-pistol that I really like and value.
Even more recently, I purchased (currently on lay-by) a S&W 432 PD Centennial model (hammerless) Airweight, snubnose revolver in .32 cal. H&R Magnum. This, (other than my Beretta .25 auto) is the only handgun I (will) posess that is really, compact, concealable, and light. And this one arguably has some appreciable amount of "stopping" power, with the right load.
Getting a little "older" and having a sometimes C-6 issue (neck); I really do appreciate the "smaller "calibers (less recoil). Besides, they're "fun' ...too.
Just don't wanna shoot that Mag Fo'ty Fo' ...no Mo'. (ouch)
--weed