Small Handgun Hunting

L

lizziedog1

New member
Has anyone here ever gone hunting with a small handgun? I am talking about pocket autos or snubbie revolvers. I realize that these handguns are usually not chambered for moose stopping rounds, but varmints and small game don't require .44 magnums. I also realize that the sights and accuracy of some small pistols leave much to be desired at longer ranges. But I figure that would add to the challenge.

So, any small handgun hunters here?
 
I carry a 642 in my pocket. Loaded with 150 grn SWCs. Not just for SD. I do a lot of horseback riding, camping, fishing ETC. I use this pistol to take cottontails and other small game for the pot, to supplement my dinner when camping.

I wouldn't consider it for large game, but if one practices a small pocket pistol would be great for small game hunting.
 
well I was fishing one time and didnt feel like carrying a mossberg 500 on my back so I brought my 9mm glock. Long story short got no fish but got my self a grouse;)
 
I took my Jennings semi auto .22 pistol (2" +/- barrel) rabbit hunting once, that was enough. Did get a rabbit IIRC. Over all it is just too small and poorly sighted for that purpose. IIRC a 2" barrel on a .22 doesn't develope enough velocity to open a HP. I might try it this week.
 
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In Indiana we can hunt deer with handgun, but the barrel must be at least 4 inches long, as well as bullet must be .243 diameter or larger, and the case must be 1.16 inches long. FMJ are not allowed. So most hunters bring a handgun into the field that meets these restrictions. But where the law gets fuzzy is when hunting fox and coyote there is no restriction on firearms that can be used. So I suppose you could harvest a coyote or fox with a .380 or 38spl etc, if you want, all other critters must be collected with a shotgun or bow, and deer with an approved handgun.
 
Went rabbit hunting awhile back with my Mossy 500, Saw a rabbit but was a bit out of range for bird shot, so i pulled out my Sp101 and fired two shots of .38 special at it first shot missed second hit it in the back. I made a super delicious rabbit stew out of that bugger...
 
Better look into your states hunting laws, some require a minimum barrel lenght like NC is 6". Be legal to get caught could hurt more just a fine. Also certen caliber only out of season like 22 only. Nothing larger the rest of the year.
 
I plan on carrying my Glock 33 with me while deer hunting. NY state requires a 5 inch barrel so I bought an extended barrel from Lone Wolf. If I get a ridiculously easy shot I may use the Glock, otherwise it'll just be a "finisher" should the need arise.

I will also be trying for a woodchuck this summer, just for fun.
 
I hunt small game with a handgun, usually my Ruger Government Target Model, but I have used the Python, the Combat Commander, and the Redhawk for bunnies (definitely head shots). A friend and I once took his milsurp 32 ACP out for rockchucks.
 
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