Handguns For Deer

by
posted on March 25, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
qa_ah2015_fs.jpg (15)

Q: I hunt with a .357 Mag. revolver and have killed several deer with it, with only a couple requiring a second shot. However, my hunting buddies tell me I am undergunned. What do you think?

A: It seems this topic comes up whenever someone expresses an opinion about a particular cartridge and its effectiveness on game. There will always be those who take exception to your stance, through their own personal beliefs and experiences. While the .357 Mag. is a capable deer round in the hands of a good marksman at limited ranges, the smallish magnum leaves very little margin for error. Loaded with a proper bullet and combined with good shot placement (which applies to any and every cartridge) the .357 Mag. will cleanly take deer, as you have discovered.

Having said that, most of the handgun hunters we know have a tendency to ere on the larger side with regards to calibers. Their preferences begin with the larger .41 Mag. and .44 Mag.

Latest

LEDEBX 6 Range HD
LEDEBX 6 Range HD

New for 2026: Leupold BX-6 Range HD Rangefinding Binocular

Leupold has launched its BX-6 Range HD rangefinding binocular. With fast, accurate ranging capabilities out to 6,000 yards, an advanced ballistics intelligence and precision GPS pinning, the BX-6 Range HD is looking to carve out a space for itself as a feature-rich rangefinding offering.

(Squirrel) Dog Days in the Delta

In the Deep South, Ringo and Max prove the sole purpose in the life of a feist is to hunt squirrels.

Primos Celebrates its 50th Anniversary

Primos, now a Revelyst brand, will continue its 50th anniversary celebration throughout 2026 with a brand refresh, new product launches, storytelling initiatives and moments that honor the hunters and traditions that made the brand what it is today.

Henry Introduces New Deadeye Revolvers

Henry Repeating Arms has announced the addition of two new revolver variants, the H16 Golden Boy Deadeye Revolver and the H17 Big Boy Deadeye Revolver, created in direct response to feedback from Henry owners and enthusiasts.

Range Review: Hi-Point HP-15 M81 .300 BLK Pistol

This recently added pistol from Hi-Point sports a new finish and upgraded features.

New for 2026: Leupold VX-4HD

When a hunt can shift from tight timber at first light to a long look across open country by midmorning, a scope must do more than just magnify. The Leupold VX-4HD is built for exactly that kind of versatility, blending rugged construction, smart engineering and optical performance into a scope that works wherever the hunt takes you.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.