Hi,
I've hunted with several fine .44 magnum handguns.
First, I used an original 3-screw Ruger Super Blackhawk. Very accurate single action, of course.
Then, I transitioned to a first-year Thomson Center Contender in .44mag. with the shorter octagon barrel. The damned thing hurt the hand real bad . . . the only gun I've ever had hurt during stout recoil. Naturally, it was very accurate too.
Finally, I went to my current revolver many years ago now, the 6" S&W Model 29-5 (made in late '89 or early '90). The -5 series Model 29 Smiths were the first entire series that had the extra strength enhancements and it is a stout revolver indeed. Sleek, but plenty strong . . . sort of like a beautiful woman.
It is the most accurate .44 mag I've ever shot, plus the double action trigger can come in handy at times. I love the way the gun handles recoil too better than the single action guns and a Smith single action revolver trigger is second to none.
A great trigger is SO important to off-the-bench, real world hunting accuracy and the 29-5 has IT!
I'd NEVER go back to either a SBH or TC. The SRH has a poorer trigger plus, IMHO, I think the Super Redhawk is overkill in the weight department. I get tired of lugging extra weight around in the woods during deer season!!! There's no need to.
Here's my rig and, as you can see, I shoot the very stout and HOT Federal 300 grain "Castcore" hunting ammo. I've downed so many deer with this rig through the years that I've lost count.
BTW, the revolver is NOT ported. The dovetailed gap in front is from the factory adjustable front sight that I removed to keep it quieter coming out of the holster. Yes, a 6 or 6 1/2" wheelgun can be easily holstered on the belt, another plus!
I doubt I'll ever be able to shoot it loose before I die and . . . if I do . . . I'll just buy another just like it. Heck, compared to hunting leases, equipment, ammo, licenses, etc. . . . the wheelguns are CHEAP!
TWICE I've downed THREE deer in a matter of mere seconds with the M29. You can't do that with the TC or the SBH. The third deer in the first group of three was running in a clearcut at full speed when I downed it broadside at SIXTY FIVE yards with the wonderful Bushnell Holosight! I mean . . . that deer went straight down and was on the ground before the barrel came down from the recoil.
The gun ALWAYS benches UNDER 2" 3-shot groups at 50 yards too!
There's not one thing I would change about my whitetail handgun rig . . . except eventually get a custom holster to replace my servicable Uncle Mike's model that I modified to securely hold my Holosighted M29! Yep, as you can see, I'm a lefty too.
T.
PS: Although it always shoots under 2" @ 50 yds. from the bench, I'm particularly proud of this recent five shot group, shot at a 5" black square. I shot it STANDING, unsupported at 50 yards and the group was only 2 3/4." Ironically, I called the two flyers out to my wife as I was shooting. The trigger is THAT good.
I keep the wheelgun sighted at 75 yards.
With the shooting stix, head shots on 50 yard squirrels are simple. You can cover a 50 yard 10 shot group with a nickel.
