If you are looking for a challenge, think about hunting with a handgun. The power of a modern hunting handgun far eclipses that of any archery combination, though you need to be much closer for a confident shot than if you were using a long gun.

Tip 1:
Know the Law.
As with any hunting activity, be sure you understand the law, rules, and regulations. Some states don’t allow any hunting with handguns, while others allow handguns during other firearm seasons. Also be sure you understand concealed carry regulations in your hunting area.

Tip 2;
Know Your Limits.
This rule is the same as with any other hunting device. Just because you put a scope on a handgun does not mean you will be accurate at a longer distance. You need to practice and shoot in likely hunting conditions. It matters not if you can hit a target from a supported bench at the range in August, but then you are hunting in a late November snowstorm, shooting from a crouching position, unsupported.

Tip 3:
Pick Your Tool.
When someone says “hunting handgun,” my first thought is a big-bore revolver, but there are many other choices out there. T/C’s venerable Contender series has been the gun of choice for generations of handgun hunters. Interchangeable barrels from .17 HMR to .45/70 Government make this a very versatile choice. Federal Premium makes a hunting round in 10mm, making those semiautomatic handguns a possibility, in appropriate settings. And of course those big single- or double-action revolvers chambered in .357 Magnum to .460 Magnum can be used to hunt anything from hogs to the largest big-game in North America.

Tip 4:
Bring Enough Gun.
For hunting deer, my opinion is .44 Magnum, .454 Casull, .500 S&W Magnum, or .460 Magnum, depending on range. A Contender in any decent rifle chambering (.243, .30-30, etc.) is great, but I once shot a Contender in .308, and, well, it was quite a ride (I did not take a second shot). Sure, a Desert Eagle could be an option, but be sure of your skills. Your goal should be one shot/one kill, and having a marginal caliber at an extended range is never a combination for consistent success.

Tip 5:
Bring Enough Bullet Too.
Premium ammo for hunting handguns is not inexpensive, but don’t be cheap. I’ve seen guys spend more at dinner than a box of premium ammo costs, and they don’t think twice about ordering an appetizer, but they will scrimp on the ammo. If you shoot a lot, you can practice with the cheaper stuff, but use enough hunting ammo so that you are completely proficient.

Tip 6:
Think Bowhunting Techniques.
Getting close is key to being successful when hunting with handguns. Yes, there are hunters who can hit at 100 yards or more, with a powerful handgun, good ammo, an outstanding scope, and a solid support. But remember that a .30-30 will have almost as much energy at 100 yards as a .44 Magnum will have at the muzzle, and that you will significantly increase your chances for success the closer you can take your shot. Think of all the techniques bowhunters use, and copy them.

Tip 7:
Safety, Safety, Safety.
The shorter the barrel, the easier it is to have it point in a bad direction. A large handgun is heavy, and if it has a scope mounted, it is even heavier. A belt holster may not be useful but check out holsters that carry the gun on your chest. It will still be easily accessible, but it is visible and the trigger and hammer are covered. And be sure to comply with the concealed carry laws in your area.

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