Pistols for deer hunting

[Bryant24]

Always been a rifle guy myself when it comes to hunting whitetail but I'm thinking about trying handguns this time. I'm really interested in hearing what calibers have worked well for others in terms of ethical hunting, and I'd love to know if you prefer using an optic or sticking with iron sights.

 

[Uncle Grinch]

I’ve used my Ruger Blackhawks in 41 Mag and 45 Colt, both with 4 5/8” barrels. Only been successful with the 41 however. I limit my self to less than 50 yards which is more than adequate in my hunting area.

 

[Magus]

I use red hawks, regular and super. I have a black hawk, but I have yet to get anything using it. Nice to see another 41 Magnum fan! totally underrated and underutilized round!

If you go Ruger, the supers will handle 300 Gr slugs, no problem!

 

[josemartin_]

The .44 Mag has become my go-to and I’ve also played around with the 10mm, and while it’s definitely capable, I still prefer the magnums when I’m doing ethical hunting.

And when it comes to sights, I'm a red dot guy since it gives me a clearer view and that extra boost of confidence when every shot counts.

 

[Bryant24]

I’ve used my Ruger Blackhawks in 41 Mag and 45 Colt, both with 4 5/8” barrels. Only been successful with the 41 however. I limit my self to less than 50 yards which is more than adequate in my hunting area.

I’ve been considering something in that same range, so it’s great to know that the 41 performed well for you. I’m also interested in your sight setup. Did you go with irons for those hunts, or did you find that an optic made a difference in accuracy at those longer ranges?

 

[Brucer41]

Used a handgun only once. I have a Smith 29, and it took me 3 rounds (poor shot placement on the shooter's part) I got overconfident and tried for about a 75-yard shot with iron sights. Decided that day, a rifle was my best friend.

 

[Uncle Grinch]

I’ve been considering something in that same range, so it’s great to know that the 41 performed well for you. I’m also interested in your sight setup. Did you go with irons for those hunts, or did you find that an optic made a difference in accuracy at those longer ranges?

I only use iron sights as I found handgun scopes add too much bulk to the gun. My 4 5/8” barrel and the area I hunt limits my effective range, but the key is practice, practice, practice!