My apologies. As was stated earlier, heavy .38+p in your current gun will kill if you treat it like an archery shot. For a budget minded, dedicated, hunting revolver I would go Ruger 44 magnum. 7 1/2" barrel or longer. I would start with iron sights but find someone that will let you shoot a gun with a dot or a low power scope before you commit to optics. A 41 mag or a 45LC will be just as effective for deer sized game.