Tips for a new handgun hunter you wish someone would have shared with you.

[Whitetails45]

I'm starting to become more dedicated to handgun hunting.
I have always thought about switching over as I have shot revolvers contenders etc for quite awhile. Was just looking for tips as this will be my first year hunting with a handgun.
Will be using a 44 mag super blackhawk hunter.

 

[ChrisRhodes]

It's really no different than rifle hunting…..just your range is more limited.

Just take the shots you are comfortable with and don't push it…..

You can't buy your way to accuracy…..got to spend the time on the range.

 

[Critter Picker]

Don't get discouraged. Hunting with a handgun is more difficult than hunting with archery equipment. You are hunting when there are more other hunters out there (rifle season),you can't wear camouflage, like bowhunters can.

With that said,the rewards are greater. You had to work harder to accomplish the same end result. Just keep on keeping on.

 

[std7mag]

Tip #1....

Get a handgun...

 

[just_jon]

Leave the rifle at home. When I started, I always carried my rifle in case I was presented with a longer shot. Problem was that I never allowed the deer to get into pistol range.

 

[nksmfamjp]

You have to sell out to the handgun. First get a handgun. Sounds like you have one. Then get an all day, all the time holster to carry. For my 44 mag, I like:

The Denali™ Chest Holster | Diamond D Outdoors | On Sale

The Denali™ Chest Holster - Perfectly designed for secure, comfortable carry, this holster provides easy access and is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts

diamonddoutdoors.com

Then study handgun bullet performance. Right or wrong, I'm convinced bullets kill best when they are the largest diameter that will still exit. I shoot a 240 gr swc in my 44 mag.

Then, you have to shoot it and learn its intricacies, especially how to hold it steady. I use steady sticks and improvised rests. Most importantly, you need to shoot it enough to know you will hit or miss based on how steady it is being held. Once you get a feel for steady and consistent accuracy, go hunt!

 

[Critter Picker]

As nksmfamjp you have to study your handgun ballistics. I found that jackrabbits were a really good ballistic material. I prefer a 255 grain .44 SWC with a gas check. I think the gas check protects the bullet base. I actually designed a 265 grain TC.44 bullet and made a mold. It is slightly more accurate than the 255 SWC but I don't think it brings down an animal as well as the SWC . Hard to beat that full diameter hole to let blood out and cold air in. Probably just my opinion, but I'm a believer.

 

[Sergeant Stadanko]

I use Lehigh 380 grain wide flat nose mono bullets in my .480 Ruger. The design of the meplate on these bullets is very devastating on game.

Hornady brass, Federal primers, Accurate 11 FS powder, excellent load! My Ruger Super Redhawk with 7 1/2" barrel and XS open sights love this load. I have taken two nice Nevada Mule Deer bucks with this combo, one at 82 yards, the other at 105 yards. Both DRT!

 

[Will.284]

Im running contenders, most recently a 7 mm tcu with 160 grain bullet out of a 14 inch barrel. I did thread the barrel for a suppressor, it's a hoot to shoot and very accurate if I do my part. I put a custom pic rail on it and a Shane awake red dot = 100yard fun

 

[WV Hitman]

PRACTICE!!!!!!!!!!!!! A LOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Mrvmax]

Look for a Savage Striker or Magnum Research Lone Eagle. They are good handguns for hunting and once in a while you can get a decent deal on one if you look around.

 

[Jester560]

You are hunting when there are more other hunters out there (rifle season),you can't wear camouflage, like bowhunters can.

Why can't you? Only difference is the need for set minimum orange.
I wear a ghillie suit with orange. Closest shot on a deer, with orange on, is 5 yards and I was on the ground.

 

[Rosebud]

Don't get more gun than you can handle. I've seen many people give up because they can't handle the muzzle blast/recoil. Close in woods hunting a .357 mag or 41 mag will kill very professionally.

 

[Dirtrax]

Everyone that said practice is on the money. It sounds like handguns are not new to you so start, or keep, sending bullets down range.
Try some positional practice as you may be surprised that some positions will plant a revolver back strap right between your eyes.
I personally like a monopod shooting stick. I can shoot well from it, glass well with it, and use it as a walking stick. They collapse nicely so they carry east when not needed. They also work well for spreading elk legs when your getting them gutted.

Good on ya bro for giving it a try. I am still hunting with my 10-1/2" RSB that I shot years ago in IHMSA. It continues to take constant practice to remain consistent and confident.

What type of sights are you using?