I think it might be easier to carry a big handgun around
in the woods instead of a little rifle. I'm considering a
.454 casull. Does anybody know of good deer loads
for this. With the handgun I'm guessing I wouldn't take
shots past 75-100 yards, and want a load that will
take it down somewhat quicky. Am I thinking of a lighter
bullet weight? Is the .454 in general a bad idea?
:lucky:
Hunting is about quick clean kills on the mechanical part.
More importanly than caliber or equipment is the ability to get close enough to place a bullet, arrow, slug, in the vitals.
That said. The 454 is a lot of gun. I have been shooting my whole life. The .44 Mag is at the top end of what I can shoot and still somewhat keep my technique in check enough to score consistent hits. Add addrenilin to this and wierd things can happen. In my opinion, around 100 yards is long enough for any handgun capable of harvesting deer ie. .41 mag, .44 mag and on up. Iv'e used .357 but limited myself to bow range, no more than 25 yards.
As far as the deer going down quickly. We hope for this, Iv'e seen them absorb some heavy firepower and run a good ways. This was with adequate calibers with vital hits. You need to be prepared to know how to track an animal.
The good side of the 454 is that 45Long Colts can be used in it. another acceptable deer pistol cartridge with propper loading. This would be easier to shoot. Still can't beat a good 'ole 44 mag IMOHO
Guns and Ammo TV had a segment on Ruger's new Alaskan Pistol, meant for tour guides and hunters in Alaska who need a last defense against pesky bruins. It is a .454 and can take the .45 longs.
Just last night I looked at a huge, honkin' .454. Not exactly my taste.
the 454 is an excellent deer cartridge, if you can tolerate the punishment it dishes out. ive fired many rnds of 454 and enjoy shooting the beast, but it most definately aint for everyone. the hornady 240gr xtp factory loads are good deer thumpers, but they thump the shooter pretty well too.
one more bit of advice, if you actually decide to hunt with a 454- wear hearing protection. 1 shot from a revolver in this caliber will cause permanent damage to your hearing.
have you ever shot one ? it literally feels like someone hit you in the hand with a hammer when you shoot it :nod: :target: don't get me wrong..it's fun two or three times but I get tired of it after that
seriously I'd consider a .44 magnum or maybe even a .41 magnum
