Check your state hunting regs!
Here in Ohio, and many other states as well, handgun hunting is only allowed with a minimum 6" barrel length. Many states also have a minimum caliber limit as well. In Ohio it is a .357Mag.
I use my Dan Wesson .357 with either the 6" Vent Heavy shroud or the 8" Vent rib shroud. (Dan Wessons have interchangable barrels) I prefer the 8" for hunting because of the longer sight radius, as well as the better velocity numbers.
For ammo selection, I'd stay away from light hollowpoints. They will have limited penetration and will not shatter bone like a more solidly constructed bullet. I have been using 158gr solid semi-wadcutters loaded on the warm side of 1500fps with great results. I may try some 180gr LBT-style bullets next year. From the reloading tables I should be able to get around 1300fps with the 180s in my 8" barrel without exceeding SAAMI pressure limits. I'm five for five with one-shot kills with the 158gr loading, so who knows what I'll decide...
A man has got to know his limitations! My kills were all within 60 yards using open sights.
Your results may vary...blah, blah, blah.