WildShot,
I have taken a few longimous-beardis with a handgun, but not with single projectiles. My home State does not allow single rounds (bullets) for spring turket; shotgun with no larger than #2 shot or bows. So, to squeeze in my handgun passion during turkey season, I use a T/C Contender in .45/.410 or T/C encore in 20ga. Both are in a handgun configuration and I shoot shot shells.
.410....
and 20ga....
and here's a small write-up I did on turkey hunting with the .410.... [url=http://www.handgunhunt.com/promo/membership/features/readNewArticle.php?oid=10&title=Most Challenging Sport?]Most Challenging Sport?[/url]
I don't know why the hyperlink won't work, but you can go to members articles and look for "Most Challenging Sport?