Ken, I don't know where you are getting your information from, but it is totally wrong.
First, a person with a LTCF (license to carry firearms) can carry ANY handgun while hunting (small game, big game, turkey, archery, etc). This includes revolvers or semi-automatics. However, the person can only use that handgun if it is an allowed weapon for game that you are hunting.
Last year while deer and bear hunting I carried my Glock 26 9mm. 100% perfectly legal. I could not use my Glock to take or put down an animal, since a semi-auto is not an allowed weapon for taking game.
Second, a person can open carry in the woods without a LTCF. However, in order to transport a handgun to your area by vehicle, you would need a LTCF. If you can walk out your back door and into the woods you are good to go. But, without a LTCF you are limited in where you can transport the handgun, and going for a walk in the woods is not one of them.
And yes, you either need a range permit or a current hunting license in order to shoot at one of the public game land ranges. With your permit or license you are allowed one guest.