{"id":217699,"date":"2026-05-04T19:06:09","date_gmt":"2026-05-05T00:06:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/?p=217699"},"modified":"2026-05-04T19:08:54","modified_gmt":"2026-05-05T00:08:54","slug":"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Handguns for Hunting"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-estimated-reading-time yoast-reading-time__wrapper\"><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-icon=\"clock\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" style=\"display:inline-block;vertical-align:-0.1em\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" stroke-width=\"2\" d=\"M12 8v4l3 3m6-3a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__spacer\" style=\"display:inline-block;width:1em\"><\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__descriptive-text\">Estimated reading time: <\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__reading-time\">12<\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__time-unit\"> minutes<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So you want to go handgun hunting? Great, you&#8217;ve come to the right place. Today, we are digging into the best handguns for hunting. But first, let&#8217;s dig into the different types of handguns you&#8217;ll run into while hunting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><h2>Table of contents<\/h2><ul><li><a href=\"#h-handguns-for-hunting\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" data-level=\"2\">Handguns For Hunting<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-revolvers\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" data-level=\"3\">Revolvers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-single-shot-pistols\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" data-level=\"3\">Single-Shot Pistols<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-semi-automatic-pistols\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" data-level=\"3\">Semi-Automatic Pistols<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-handguns-for-hunting-popular-calibers-by-size\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" data-level=\"2\">Handguns for Hunting &#8211; Popular Calibers By Size<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-small-game\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" data-level=\"3\">Small Game<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-medium-game\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" data-level=\"3\">Medium Game<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-large-and-dangerous-game\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" data-level=\"3\">Large and Dangerous Game<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-best-handguns-for-hunting\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" data-level=\"2\">Best Handguns for Hunting<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-ruger-mk4-tactical\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" data-level=\"3\">Ruger Mk4 Tactical<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-ruger-blackhawk-and-super-blackhawk\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" data-level=\"3\">Ruger Blackhawk and Super Blackhawk<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-glock-40-mos\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" data-level=\"3\">Glock 40 MOS<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-rossi-brawler-300-blackout\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" data-level=\"3\">Rossi Brawler .300 Blackout<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-thompson-center-encore\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" data-level=\"3\">Thompson Center Encore<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-s-amp-w-model-460xvr\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" data-level=\"3\">S&amp;W Model 460XVR<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-hunting-with-handguns\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" data-level=\"2\">Hunting With Handguns<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-handguns-for-hunting\"><strong>Handguns For Hunting<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are three types of handgun configurations popular amongst hunters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-revolvers\"><strong>Revolvers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Revolvers are known for their inherent strength, reliability, and ability to handle powerful magnum cartridges. Wheelguns are available in any caliber and configuration and are capable of hunting everything from squirrels to bears when you pick the right caliber.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Heritage-TC-IMG-7315-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"revolver on table handguns for hunting\" class=\"wp-image-157568\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Heritage-TC-IMG-7315-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Heritage-TC-IMG-7315-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Heritage-TC-IMG-7315-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Heritage-TC-IMG-7315-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Heritage-TC-IMG-7315.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Heritage Introduces the Rough Rider &#8216;Tactical Cowboy&#8217; Revolver<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>They can offer a light single-action trigger, which allows for precision-oriented shots. These guns can be equipped with long eye relief scopes to match that long-range precision. They are one of the more popular handgun hunting options on the market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-single-shot-pistols\"><strong>Single-Shot Pistols<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Strong actions and fixed barrel accuracy define the success of single-shot pistols. These weapons can even chamber powerful rifle cartridges, as well as magnum revolver cartridges, and even micro-sized rimfire rounds. Like revolvers, they come in a variety of sizes and shapes. A lot of these guns have interchangeable barrels, which allow you to swap calibers on demand.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Rossi_Brawler_308.jpg\" alt=\"True holding out a Rossi Brawler in 300 BLK\" class=\"wp-image-215275\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Rossi_Brawler_308.jpg 900w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Rossi_Brawler_308-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Rossi_Brawler_308-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Rossi_Brawler_308-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Meet the brand-new Rossi Brawler chambered in .300 Blackout. That\u2019s right\u2014the fan-favorite single-shot utility gun has evolved from its original .45 Colt\/.410 setup into a true survivalist\u2019s dream.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Additionally, much like revolvers, it\u2019s easy to mount magnified optics. The main downside is the limited production, the single-shot-only design, and they are typically bulky guns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-semi-automatic-pistols\"><strong>Semi-Automatic Pistols<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Semi-auto handguns offer fast follow-up shots, higher capacity, and less felt recoil due to the action absorbing some of the energy. Semi-auto handguns are limited in choice and caliber. There are very few magnum-powered semi-autos, with the 10mm being the most common and reliable option. For moderate to small game, a semi-auto can be a great choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/Lockback-sm-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"semi-automatic pistol handguns for hunting\" class=\"wp-image-111682\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/Lockback-sm-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/Lockback-sm-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/Lockback-sm-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/Lockback-sm-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/Lockback-sm.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">DESERT EAGLE SPREADS ITS WINGS AGAIN \u2013 With the New .429 DE Magnum!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-handguns-for-hunting-popular-calibers-by-size\"><strong>Handguns for Hunting &#8211; Popular Calibers By Size<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The choice of caliber is paramount and should match the game you&#8217;re hunting. There are tons of great handgun-hunting cartridges, but I\u2019m sticking with proven, popular, and available cartridges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-small-game\"><strong>Small Game<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>.22LR and .22 Magnum: Affordable, low recoil, excellent for precision small game hunting at close ranges. Leaves a small hole so fur can be preserved.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"765\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/taurus-tx-22.jpg\" alt=\".22lr handguns for hunting\" class=\"wp-image-208633\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/taurus-tx-22.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/taurus-tx-22-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/taurus-tx-22-150x112.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/taurus-tx-22-768x574.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The .22LR is a great hunting cartridge<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-medium-game\"><strong>Medium Game<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>.357 Magnum: A versatile choice, but often considered the minimum for deer-sized game, especially at longer ranges. Ensure you\u2019re purchasing ammo designed for hunting and not self-defense. There are plenty of hunting-oriented options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>10mm Auto: A powerful semi-auto cartridge that approaches .41 Magnum in power and penetration. Excellent for deer and hogs, and as a potent self-defense round in bear country. Hunting loads are somewhat limited, but there are potent and capable rounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"780\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/10mm-ammo-winchester-1024x780.jpg\" alt=\"stack of 10mm ammunition\" class=\"wp-image-207039\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/10mm-ammo-winchester-1024x780.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/10mm-ammo-winchester-394x300.jpg 394w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/10mm-ammo-winchester-150x114.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/10mm-ammo-winchester-768x585.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/10mm-ammo-winchester.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Yes, 10mm can be used for self-defense. Just be sure you use the best possible defensive loads.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>.44 Magnum: A potent, powerful, and versatile load for medium to large game. Capable of taking deer, elk, black bear, and wild boar. Tons of factory loadings with a variety of projectile weights and types.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-large-and-dangerous-game\"><strong>Large and Dangerous Game<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>.454 Casull: A serious step up in power and recoil from the .44 Magnum. This cartridge is capable of taking most North American game. These guns can also fire .45 Colt, a potent hunting cartridge in its own right.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>.460 S&amp;W Magnum: Extremely powerful, very flat-shooting, and capable of taking the largest game. Can also fire .454 Casull and .45 Colt ammunition, offering versatility and the ability to hunt smaller game without spending .460 S&amp;W Magnum money.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"764\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Photo-12-3-1024x764.jpg\" alt=\"The .45 Colt (L) and .454 Casull (R)\" class=\"wp-image-79800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Photo-12-3-1024x764.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Photo-12-3-150x112.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Photo-12-3-400x298.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Photo-12-3-768x573.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The .45 Colt (L) and .454 Casull (R). The Casull is an updated and slightly elongated version of the .45 Colt, fully capable of firing .45 Colt ammunition. The reverse is not true. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>.500 S&amp;W Magnum: The most powerful production handgun cartridge in the world. Designed for the largest and most dangerous game. Recoil is substantial, and this cartridge isn\u2019t as efficient as the .460 S&amp;W Magnum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-best-handguns-for-hunting\"><strong>Best Handguns for Hunting<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With that out of the way, let\u2019s dig into what I think are some of the best handguns for hunting. I\u2019m sticking to common guns, somewhat affordable, and easy to find. There are great custom revolver smiths making fantastic firearms, but they\u2019re tough to suggest when lead times are 18 months and the minimum cost is three grand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-ruger-mk4-tactical\"><strong>Ruger Mk4 Tactical<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Ruger Mk series is a renowned rimfire handgun that helped build Ruger into the company they are today. We are up to the Mk 4 models, and inside the Mk 4 lineup are several models, including one labeled the Hunter. However, I think the Tactical makes for a better hunting gun. Primarily because it\u2019s red dot ready out of the box.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/IMG_8772-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Rugar Mark IV laying on the ground handguns for hunting\" class=\"wp-image-176773\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/IMG_8772-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/IMG_8772-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/IMG_8772-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/IMG_8772-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/IMG_8772-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/IMG_8772-2048x1365.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">My Favorite 22 Pistol: Ruger 22\/45 Tactical<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>I want humane shots, which means accurate shots. Squirrels aren\u2019t known for being big targets, and a headshot can be tough to make. With a red dot, it\u2019s a lot easier. The Mk 4 series is already an incredibly accurate platform, and a red dot takes it a step further. Rabbits, tree rats, and other pests are easy targets within 25 yards with the Mk 4 Tactical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, the barrel is threaded, and I want a can on my hunting guns when possible. Suppressing .22LR is ridiculously easy, and the Tactical runs subsonic ammo without issue. With a can and an optic, this Mk 4 becomes a small game assassin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-ruger-blackhawk-and-super-blackhawk\"><strong>Ruger Blackhawk and Super Blackhawk<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s get all the Rugers out early. Another of Ruger\u2019s incredibly popular guns is the Blackhawk series. The Blackhawk series are single-action revolvers designed for tasks like hunting. The Blackhawk is a piece of American iron, a single-action powerhouse built like a tank. If you&#8217;re looking for a serious hunting pistol, then the Blackhawk and, by extension, Super Blackhawk are the way to go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"475\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/turnbull-ruger-super-blackhawk-1024x475.jpg\" alt=\"Single-action Revolver \" class=\"wp-image-69591\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/turnbull-ruger-super-blackhawk-1024x475.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/turnbull-ruger-super-blackhawk-150x70.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/turnbull-ruger-super-blackhawk-400x186.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/turnbull-ruger-super-blackhawk-768x356.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/turnbull-ruger-super-blackhawk.jpg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Gorgeous New Talo Exclusives: an Engraved Colt 1911 and a Turnbull Ruger Super Blackhawk<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Blackhawk comes in a wide variety of calibers. This includes the .357 Magnum, the .41 Magnum, the .45 Colt, and even the .30 Carbine. Barrel lengths vary, but I prefer long barrels for hunting. They offer more velocity and a great sight radius. These are perfect for moderate-sized game. The Super Blackhawk is a bigger, beefier, more tank-like Blackhawk that chambers the .44 Magnum cartridge. That gets you into the big game world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ruger offers these in stainless finishes and even convertible cylinder models, so you can shoot cheaper semi-auto cartridges through a few of these models. The Blackhawk has been around for a long time, so optics mounts are easy to find, but the presence of a proper rear sight makes them precision-oriented out of the box.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-glock-40-mos\"><strong>Glock 40 MOS<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Glock isn\u2019t known as a hunting brand, but the <a href=\"https:\/\/us.glock.com\/en\/pistols\/g40-gen4-mos\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Glock 40<\/a> is an excellent hunting pistol. The Glock 40 isn\u2019t a .40 S&amp;W, but a 10mm cartridge. The 10mm is an excellent gun for hunting medium-sized game, and the gun offers you 15 rounds of 10mm. That\u2019s a lot of follow-up shots, and if a fast shooter meets a hog herd, they can get a fair bit of bacon. The Glock 40\u2019s six-inch barrel will help those heavy hunting cartridges reach a high velocity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"750\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/G40-1-6.jpg\" alt=\"Pistol on a bag\" class=\"wp-image-41543\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/G40-1-6.jpg 900w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/G40-1-6-150x125.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/G40-1-6-360x300.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Love the long slide? Then this is the GLOCK for you.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>MOS stands for Modular Optic System. I firmly believe optics make humane shots easier, and I owe that deer a humane shot. A red dot allows for more accurate shot placement, particularly under field conditions where perfect stance and lighting are rare. This capability is essential for ethical kills, extending the G40&#8217;s practical hunting range beyond iron sights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Glocks are extremely reliable, and we want reliability in our hunting handguns. The Glock 40 is going to go bang in the most austere conditions, and you can count on it to survive falls, moisture, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-rossi-brawler-300-blackout\"><strong>Rossi Brawler .300 Blackout<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want an affordable, single-shot pistol in a modern rifle cartridge, the Rossi .300 Blackout Brawler is the way to go. At its core, the Brawler is a break-action, hammer-fired single-shot pistol. This design inherently maximizes reliability by minimizing moving parts and complex feeding mechanisms. Plus, it makes it affordable!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1800\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/SSPB9300-BK-1.jpg\" alt=\"rossi brawler .300 blackout\" class=\"wp-image-217707\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/SSPB9300-BK-1.jpg 1800w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/SSPB9300-BK-1-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/SSPB9300-BK-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/SSPB9300-BK-1-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/SSPB9300-BK-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/SSPB9300-BK-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1800px) 100vw, 1800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A suppressed, single-shot .300 Blackout is one helluva handgun.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Rossi Brawler features a nine-inch barrel optimized to work with the .300 Blackout cartridge. The end of that barrel is threaded so you can use a can, which just makes sense. .300 Blackout plays well with suppressors, so you can have an extremely quiet hunting handgun. It\u2019s also a decent option for medium game hunting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rossi includes an optics rail across the top, which makes it easy to accept a long eye relief magnified optic or a red dot of your choice. You get one shot, so you have to make it count, and an optic does just that. A suppressed Brawler in .300 Blackout with an optic would be one helluva combination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-thompson-center-encore\"><strong>Thompson Center Encore<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Thompson\/Center Encore is a legendary name in the world of single-shot firearms. Sadly, they seem out of production, but there are tons of them floating around. They are incredibly modular, and a single frame can accommodate dozens, if not hundreds of calibers. Different barrels are easy to swap out, and you can shoot calibers you didn\u2019t even know existed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"770\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Thompson-Contender.jpg\" alt=\"Thompson pistol\" class=\"wp-image-217706\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Thompson-Contender.jpg 770w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Thompson-Contender-400x234.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Thompson-Contender-150x88.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Thompson-Contender-768x449.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>You can take one frame and rabbit hunt with .22LR, deer hunt with .41 Mag or .30-30, and take big game with .500 S&amp;W Magnum. The possibilities might not be endless, but like soup, salad, and breadsticks, you\u2019ll run out of space before you reach the end. On top of having tons of cartridge options, you have easy access to optics, bipods, and threaded barrels for suppressors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These are incredibly accurate pistols that are known for their long-lasting durability. You\u2019ll find Encore models from 1997 that have been fed a steady stream of high-powered cartridges that still shoot like day one. They can even be easily converted to rifles and muzzleloaders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>READ MORE HERE: <a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/hunt365-the-ideal-handgun-hunting-caliber-for-wild-boar\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Handgun Hunting: The Ideal Handgun Caliber for Wild Boar<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-s-amp-w-model-460xvr\"><strong>S&amp;W Model 460XVR<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The S&amp;W 500 might be the most powerful handgun cartridge on the market, but power isn\u2019t everything. The .460 S&amp;W Magnum can do the same thing .500 S&amp;W can do, but it\u2019s much more efficient. The Model 460 uses the X-Frame design, so you are getting a very big, very heavy revolver. The XVR model even comes with sling swivels to help you tote the beast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"531\" src=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/SW-460-1024x531.jpg\" alt=\"S&amp;W 460XVR handguns for hunting\" class=\"wp-image-217708\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/SW-460-1024x531.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/SW-460-400x207.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/SW-460-150x78.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/SW-460-768x398.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/SW-460.jpg 1350w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The 460 S&amp;W Mag is a very efficient and potent caliber<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The 460XVR includes a long optics rail across the barrel, which sets you up well for scopes or red dots. If you go without an optic, you get an adjustable rear sight and high-visibility front sight. A muzzle device helps bleed recoil and muzzle rise as well. Recoil and muzzle rise will be significant, and this isn\u2019t a gun for beginners by any means.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It does offer you dangerous and big game killing potential. It can throw a 200-grain bullet at 2,300 feet per second, and projectiles as heavy as 395 grains are available. The cartridge can achieve excellent range, penetration, and energy. It\u2019s the most efficient of the big-bore cartridges. The S&amp;W Model 460 guns can still shoot .454 Casull and .45 Colt, making it a fairly efficient option for hunting a variety of game.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-hunting-with-handguns\"><strong>Hunting With Handguns<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for a different thrill this fall, take a handgun hunting. It\u2019s a completely different experience and a new level of satisfaction. Just make sure your handgun matches your game, and your skill matches the shots you\u2019re taking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\" style=\"font-size:24px\"><strong><em>*** <a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-best-handguns-for-hunting\" title=\"Best Handguns for Hunting\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Buy and Sell on GunsAmerica!<\/a> ***<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you\u2019re looking for a different thrill this fall, take a handgun hunting.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":135,"featured_media":210402,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_specdata_upc":"","_specdata_placement":"manual","footnotes":""},"categories":[4305,694,4321,859,1217,3459],"tags":[2900,985,1209],"featured":[],"hunt365":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-217699","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-expert-guides","8":"category-gun-reviews","9":"category-guns","10":"category-gun-reviews-handguns","11":"category-hunt365","12":"category-travis-pike","13":"tag-handgun-hunting","14":"tag-handguns","15":"tag-hunt365"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.3 (Yoast SEO v27.5) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Best Handguns for Hunting<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Are you looking to take a deer, a hog, squirrel, or even a bear? 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