Tips for Getting a Hunting Handgun

If you’re into hunting smaller things and want to get a handgun for this, here are some things to consider.
Having the right handgun is a plus, don’t get stuck with the wrong one, you’ll just be wasting your time.

So here are some tips that can help you make the right choice.

• What’s your Game?
  
  So what are you hunting? If you’re going for bigger animals its going to require bigger bullets, which has power.
  For that bigger game, you shouldn’t be dinking around with anything smaller than a .357 Magnum.
  You obviously, don’t want to be using a .44 Magnum on a smaller animal, because you’re wasting all that meat by damaging it. Start with .22 LR if you’re going for squirrels or rabbits, and adjust accordingly to the game you’re after.



• Revolver or semi-automatic?
  
  Here’s a quick pros and con: Revolvers are simple in operation, and semi-automatics allow higher capacity and quicker rapid shots.
  If you’re hunting big game, for the Glock lovers go with something in a G20 10mm or a lower-capacity .500 S&W Magnum revolver. (Revolvers has its play in this)
  Bottom line is that it really comes down to preference.
  You could even look into single-shot, bolt-action and lever-action handguns, but if you’re into this it will take some research. Ultimately, your handgun should fit you and your style of hunting.
• How much accuracy do you need?
  
  If you didn’t know having longer barrels means higher velocities and usually equates to better accuracy.
  So the question is how much barrel do you want to carry around with you?
  Most experienced folks carry one with 6-8 inches barrel.
• Scope or no Scope?
  
  Not sure if you’re going for the Han Solo blaster look, but pragmatically its not worth it.
  Yes, some handguns have integral scope mounts you can attach a handgun scope to.
  But just remember when you add a scope, you increase bulk and weight.
  When you’re aiming it, your hand will be wobbling all over the place. Don’t care how good of a shot you are, having extra weight on the pistol is different.
  If you really gotta have the scope, then use a cross stick (its a bipod) support for long-range shooting.
• How much are you willing to Pay?
  Its important to shop around and check those handgun reviews. Talk with seasoned handgun hunters on what they use.
  Gun buying shouldn’t cost you an arm and a leg.
• What about the Recoil?
  
  Remember Dirty Harry flashing his famous .44 Magnum?
  Well everyone had to get one.
  Manufacturers loved this as they were making money.
  But the ones that were buying it had a hard time with the kick, this isn’t a little kick, its a huge kick.
  Just stick to something that you can handle, don’t even think of trying a .500 S&W Magnum or a .460 S&W Magnum, these cannons will explode out of your hands.

What other tips can you share with us?