Handgun hunting for deer.

[WillR]

Who does this? Do you also carry a rifle? What are you using? What ammo do you prefer?

I picked up a 44 to use this year and have been working on the ballistics. Some of the factory stuff is pretty hot. There is a wide variation in energy. All the way from light poofer loads to recipes that are off the scales hot.

 

[Okie4570]

Have done the .44 and .41 mag revolvers, and is usually what I carry. Had an encore in 7mmBR, that was a blast. Going to pack the 1911 this year. Will always have the rifle with me as well.

 

[Oklahomabassin]

I have carried a 44 mag and my 1911 before, but I have yet to take a shot. I am getting to the point in my hunting career that I enjoy watching the wildlife and I don't have to make a kill to be successful.

 

[CHenry]

I killed a deer 4 years ago with a .44 mag at 3 yards. I always carry it just in case I get that close shot and it paid off.

 

[okhunter]

I killed a doe a few years back with a 44 mag. I picked up a 10 mm this summer and plan on trying it this year. I always carry the rifle along though.

 

[dennishoddy]

I carry a pistol for the close shots. Killed around a dozen with a .44 mag, two with a 1911 .45 acp.
Recently picked up a S&W 65-5 in .45 LC that will be on the hip this year. havent shot it yet.

 

[Old Fart]

Back when I hunted hard I always took my Tackleberry with me.
You never know when or how close a shot will present itself.
Always carried a rifle except once when we were just out walking around mid-day.
As luck would have it a monster buck showed up.

 

[surjimmy]

I carry my Delta just in case I get a close up shot.

 

[TwoForFlinching]

Shot a doe two years ago with my 686 Smith, 6" barrel, 25 yards. Corbon .357 mag. Big challenge, made it fun

 

[willystruck]

Carried a Dan Wesson .357 8" bbl for many years. Killed more deer with it than any other gun I've ever owned. All shots under 50 yds. I sometimes carry a rifle, sometimes not. The Dan is loaded with some wicked handloads. Never lost a deer using it!