I would like to start hunting whitetails here in michigan wiht a handgun. Shots would all be limited to probably 30yds or less as thats what i normally shoot bowhunting and would more than likely be hunting from the same stands. So I was wondering what would be a good starter gun for me (preferably a revolver) and could I pick one up for 3bills or less?


I'm a 59year old male of medium build in good shape. If that helps.

Any of a number of 44 Mag's would be great. Good luck finding one for less than $300.

Zatback, Glad to here from you. 30yds or less you could use a 357 with good ammo and shot them broadside just like you would hit them with your arrows. If handguns are new to you the 357 is a really good place to start and it gives you the option of practicing with 38 spec ammo. With the range that bowhunters use
(I assume 4oyds max) and a double lung broadside shot you will have no problems with any of the good brands of 357`s. I started with a Colt Python using 158gr JHP ammo on Pennsey whitetails. Good luck and always ask if anything is on your mind.James
PS small bore for Franchise starts at .40cal.....

 Originally Posted By: Franchise

Any of a number of 44 Mag's would be great. Good luck finding one for less than $300.

I agree. Single action or double action is a personal preference. I like single's. Als on the table would a 10" Contender...that's be my choice.

 Quote:

PS small bore for Franchise starts at .40cal.....

As do for most of us ;-)

Agree that the 357 is a good gun for usual bow ranges. If new to shooting a handgun, the recoil is much less intimidating than the big 40's. The main thing is to be proficient with it, whatever it is.

The $300 mark is going to be tough tho. You can find Ruger GP100's in the $350 range quite often, but not much for $300 unless you get lucky.

Welcome to HH! I would first start my baseline a little higher ($450); as others have stated, it's gonna be tough finding a $300 hunting revolver. I prefer single actions, but that's just personal preference. I would suggest starting with a good (Ruger, S&W, or FA's) chambered in the finest cartridge ever designed (45 Colt).

It's been around over a hundred years and sees no end. You can load it from mild to wild and take most any game in NA. It's not as much factory ammo available, but that's just more reason to start reloading.

These guys give great advice. You might be better to save up a little more and look at a used ruger blackhawk if single action is appealing to you. I would recommend getting together with a friend who has some that you can shoot to see what caliber is comfortable. A 44 may not be too much and that would give you a little more range.

Thanks guys. Wasn't sure if I would be able to find anything in that price range but now I know where to start!

Where are you from? We've got guys scattered all over the states that are willing to burn powder with beginners!

[quote=Dan B.]Where are you from? We've got guys scattered all over the states that are willing to burn powder with beginners! [/quote


Oceana county Michigan