deer hunting gun

[johnf]

I would like to get a hand gun for short yardage deer hunting, but don't want to break the bank.

I had a ruger blackhawk 357 but traded it for a deer rifle (seemed like a good deal at the time).

I was thinking about another 357 or maybe a 1911.
Does the 1911 have enough punch to effectively harvest a deer?
We are talking about Arkansas, so there aren't going to be any 300 pounders. Most doe run under 125 pounds, mature bucks around 200.

[ZooBear]

I would look at a 41 or a 44 myself. The 357 is a bit on the small side but will work well with shots at reasonable yardage. I would stay away from the 45.

[Texan_Til_I_Die]

I agree that a 357 is about as small as you would want to go. Don't think a 45 ACP is suitable at all. If you don't like the idea of a 44 mag, think about a T/C in 30-30 or some other light "deer rifle" type caliber.

[johnf]

I'd also like to have it around the house for personal protection or for plinking. I don't the t/c single shot is what I'm looking for.

What's a good 357 for the money?

[johnf]

Yes, I've got the book in my lap right now. I've been looking on line and found a ruger 357 mag, 41 mag and 44 Mag for around $300 each. Does it cost much more to shoot the 41 or 44 than the 357? And would they be that much better for hunting?

[hangunnr]

Hands down the .44mag is a better all around caliber for deer hunting. The .357mag is OK if you limit yourself to short range shots.

I'll assume you're not a reloader so the price of ammo can be a concern. Keep in mind if you get a .357mag you can always plink with low cost 38 special ammo. If you go with a .44mag you can shoot .44special ammo if your local shops stock them. This will help to keep the cost down.

I'd stick with at least a 6" barrel on whatever gun you end up with.

hangunnr

[timpat]

My friend hunts with a .454 Casull i think it is, he drops anything he outs his crosshairs on! has a 8in barrel its one mean gun