Few Pennsylvania whitetail hunters ever consider hunting with a handgun. Those who do find that the Keystone State offers almost ideal conditions for handgun hunting and that taking a deer with a hand cannon is one of the most satisfying ways to fill a tag.

The first handgun I purchased was not for self-defense or even plinking; it was for hunting hogs. Once that hunt was over, I didn’t want to just put the gun in a cabinet and let it sit, so I started taking it on local deer hunts as well. I soon found that it was very similar to my archery hunts — the need to get close, using all my skills to remain undetected, and generally only getting one shot.

I also found that my home woods were nearly perfect for hunting with a handgun. Due to terrain or ground cover, most shots are short distances, less than 100 yards. A handgun offered more range than a bow and only slightly less than what I considered a long shot, at least where I was hunting.

One of the questions I frequently get about hunting with a handgun is, “What caliber?” This is quickly followed by, “What type of platform?”

When it comes to caliber, the minimum I consider is .357 Magnum. However, although this popular round can take whitetail, there are several “ifs” involved. If the range is under 50 yards, the shot placement is good, and you select the correct ammunition. For hunters who already have a .357 Magnum, it is a great way to break the ice and get into handgun hunting, but chances are you will find yourself wanting more.

For those purchasing a handgun for hunting, I recommend a caliber of no less than .41. That pistol I bought for hogs was a 10mm Smith & Wesson, and it performed flawlessly on both hogs and deer. Since it is almost impossible to find a 10mm revolver at a reasonable price, the .41 is a close alternative. Other popular calibers include the .44 Magnum, the .480 Ruger, the .454 Casull, and even the .460 or .500 S&W, although the last two are usually more than is needed in Pennsylvania.

I also prefer a double-action platform, although many single-action platforms are not only popular with hunters, but also quite capable of taking whitetails. My preference for a double-action is simply a personal preference, not any significant advantage over other platforms. For those seeking to increase range, several single-shot platforms are available chambered in larger rifle calibers. The trade-off will be having only one chance to take down your target.

Next, consider the optics. Let me start by stating that scopes are not an absolute when it comes to hunting. Adding one does increase range and makes shot placement much easier, especially for novices, but clean kills can still be made with iron sights. I dislike scopes due to the added bulk, but I have reached a point where optics are necessary to help with my older eyes. I have compromised by adding red dots to some of my pistols. They require some practice to become proficient, but in the long run, they have made the overall experience more enjoyable.

Finally, we come to something that handgun owners may overlook: the choice of holsters. When I first started, shoulder holsters were my only real option. Drawing from anywhere else, especially with heavier weather clothing on, was nearly impossible when using a large-frame revolver. Now I find a quality chest holster to be the best choice. Try on some different models and see what fits you best.