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To all lurkers #172586 09/06/2016 10:27 PM
Joined: May 2012
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reflex264 Offline OP
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Pull up a log to fire and join in. Tell us about your handgun hunts successful or not. I already know there are several of you because I have talked to you. Everyone here is just one of the boys. I haven't seen any prima donnas around here lately. Its true you can read the post here and learn a lot about handgun hunting but we might learn something from you as well. I have been at it for 35 years and I still learn all the time. If you have killed a doe we want to hear about it. This is one sight that when people tell you they are glad you are here they mean it. Join in!


"A quiet hit in the right place is better than a loud miss in the wrong place followed by 10 more shots on the run"

I was a handgun hunter, when handgun wasn't cool.....
Re: To all lurkers [Re: reflex264] #172589 09/06/2016 10:44 PM
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Raptortrapper Offline
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 Originally Posted By: reflex264
If you have killed a doe we want to hear about it.


...or a squirrel, coon, rabbit, chipmunk, mouse, opossum, coon, 'yote, crow, Hillary... I mean COW, prairie dog, skunk, Pelosi... I mean PIG, aardvark, platypus, badger, Obama... I mean JACKASS, cape buffalo, alligator, ox, wolf, democrat... I mean RAT, weasel, fox, elk, deer, moose...

We'd love to hear the story, and have ya join the group!


A lot of people are like a slinky: Not much fun till you push them down the stairs!

Lifetime Member of the NRA! Wish I'd a done it sooner.
Re: To all lurkers [Re: Raptortrapper] #172624 09/07/2016 3:33 AM
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 5,057
Gary Offline
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I'll second reflex's sentiment. I honestly feel like this is one of the best sites on the net for hunting information and general camaraderie. We have always had very little troubles with trolls and other such vermin because I believe we are a cut above. Not to disparage others, but not everyone had what it takes to be a handgun hunter. Of course we've had a few issues over what has now been almost 17 years but the neerdowells don't last very long here mainly because we would rather ignore them than engage in the battle on their terms.

Well done everyone!

Gary


You can't wait any longer. Join the NRA and start writing your Congressmen and Senators.
Re: To all lurkers [Re: Gary] #172626 09/07/2016 3:56 AM
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 4,461
pab1 Offline
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 Originally Posted By: Gary
I'll second reflex's sentiment. I honestly feel like this is one of the best sites on the net for hunting information and general camaraderie. We have always had very little troubles with trolls and other such vermin because I believe we are a cut above. Not to disparage others, but not everyone had what it takes to be a handgun hunter. Of course we've had a few issues over what has now been almost 17 years but the neerdowells don't last very long here mainly because we would rather ignore them than engage in the battle on their terms.

Well done everyone!

Gary


Could not agree more! Well said!


Experience is the best teacher, hunger good sauce.
Osborne Russell Journal of a Trapper


Re: To all lurkers [Re: pab1] #172632 09/07/2016 9:18 AM
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 2,209
REDHAWK1954 Offline
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The guys on this site have been a big help to me since I joined!


Michael Joe Moore
Re: To all lurkers [Re: REDHAWK1954] #172639 09/07/2016 12:31 PM
Joined: Sep 2015
Posts: 142
Teep Offline
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I've been lurking for a while. Last year I decided to get back into handgun hunting and purchased a pair of S&W revolvers, a 617 and 686. I quickly discovered my skills do not belong in the field so have been practising until I feel comfortable enough to make a clean shot on game. I think some rabbits are going to be on the table this winter though.

Re: To all lurkers [Re: Teep] #172641 09/07/2016 12:56 PM
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 2,500
reflex264 Offline OP
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Very few things are more fun than chasing small game with a handgun. Have at it and post some pics.


"A quiet hit in the right place is better than a loud miss in the wrong place followed by 10 more shots on the run"

I was a handgun hunter, when handgun wasn't cool.....
Re: To all lurkers [Re: Teep] #172654 09/07/2016 1:59 PM
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 5,057
Gary Offline
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 Originally Posted By: Teep
I've been lurking for a while. Last year I decided to get back into handgun hunting and purchased a pair of S&W revolvers, a 617 and 686. I quickly discovered my skills do not belong in the field so have been practising until I feel comfortable enough to make a clean shot on game. I think some rabbits are going to be on the table this winter though.
I love squirrel hunting with a revolver. Wish we had more of them around here. Oddly in the hill-country they are not considered game animals and thus open season all year.


You can't wait any longer. Join the NRA and start writing your Congressmen and Senators.
Re: To all lurkers [Re: REDHAWK1954] #172655 09/07/2016 2:52 PM
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 266
archr610 Offline
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 Originally Posted By: REDHAWK1954
The guys on this site have been a big help to me since I joined!


X2


Support bacteria:
It's the only culture some people have
Re: To all lurkers [Re: Gary] #172656 09/07/2016 3:05 PM
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 11
guitarbob Offline
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Hello, my name is Bob. And, I'm a lurker. Actually, I joined the forum a while back. Then, between all the other hunting, fishing, and guitar forums I'm a member of, I kinda forgot about it. Fortunately for me, I recently re-found the forum.

I'm 61, and didn't start hunting seriously until about 10 years ago. So, trying to make up for lost time. My primary deer hinting rifle has been my Savage 110 in .270. Love the rifle, and the caliber. And, it's done a fine job.

However, my fondness for lever action rifles, and single action revolvers brought me to the desire to hunt more with both. I have 30-30, .35 Rem, and 45/70 in the levers. And, .357, .41 Mag, .44 Mag, and .45 Long Colt in the SA revolvers. The goal this season is to set the Savage aside, and hunt with the levers, and revolvers.

Actually sat in the deer blind a couple of years ago with my Super Blackhawk with the intention of shooting a doe. However, I was interrupted when my son started texting me that he had downed his first buck, a dandy 10 point. My doe hunt was interrupted.

I have enjoyed reading all the posts in this forum, and do plan to be more involved. One thing I seem to find conflicting opinions on is handgun hunting ammo. I read of guys hunting hogs with hollow points. But, I've read a lot of opinions that hollow points don't get the penetration needed for hogs hunting. Hard cast seems to be the preferred projectile. Even for deer, I have read that hard cast is the way to go.

I'd like to hear more from the handgun hunters here regarding that argument. The proof is in the results, as they say.

Anyway, thanks for the invite reflex!

Re: To all lurkers [Re: reflex264] #172659 09/07/2016 4:29 PM
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 89
SGalan Offline
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 Originally Posted By: reflex264
If you have killed a doe we want to hear about it.


You asked for it! Doe 35 yards. .44 Special. Penetrated clean through diagonally - shoulder to opposite hindquarter.


Re: To all lurkers [Re: guitarbob] #172660 09/07/2016 5:28 PM
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 9,608
s4s4u Offline
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 Quote:
Hard cast seems to be the preferred projectile.


That is often a spirited discussion, haha. I prefer jacketed bullets, sometimes HP and sometimes SP, but always clad. I have been looking into powder coated of late but haven't gotten very far down that road as yet. Welcome to the forum and hopefully you won't get interupted next time on a handgun hunt ;-)


Rod, too.

Short cuts often lead to long recoveries.
Re: To all lurkers [Re: s4s4u] #172661 09/07/2016 5:34 PM
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 9,715
jamesfromjersey Offline
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Best site in the world for a handgun hunter.....


Life member-NRA-SCI
Member-HHI #2900-HHASA #067
Colt-Ruger-Freedom Arms-and S&W Collector Assoc.s
"I have more guns then I need but not as many as I want" "Handgun hunters HAVE to be good"
Re: To all lurkers [Re: jamesfromjersey] #172663 09/07/2016 6:57 PM
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 5,512
Ernie Offline
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I like XTP's.
Every time I have used them, deer and antelope die.
I have used HC as well...deer and antelope died those times too.


Ernie the Un-Tactical
Re: To all lurkers [Re: Ernie] #172724 09/08/2016 8:34 PM
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 192
thadf Offline
member
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Posts: 192
SGalan - Love the shirt and vest. Wool?

Revolver and deer are nice as well!
\:\)

Re: To all lurkers [Re: thadf] #172726 09/08/2016 8:47 PM
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 89
SGalan Offline
journeyman
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Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 89
Thad,

Thanks very much. I am a bit of a wool fanatic!

Shirt: Pendelton wool -vintage
Vest: Cabelas outfitters fleece
Pants: German military surplus - very nice weight

Re: To all lurkers [Re: SGalan] #172748 09/09/2016 6:02 AM
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 818
sixshot Offline
old hand
Offline
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Posts: 818
To all you new guys, each one of us was in your shoes once too. Maybe it was a long time ago but nobody was born doing it so don't be embarrassed if you haven't shot anything but cans or paper targets, we all started somewhere pretty easy.
First thing is, don't over gun yourself with heavy loads or long distance, either one will ruin your confidence & take much longer to learn the basics.
Hitting is fun so use a load that is comfortable to shoot & do it at a distance that challenges you a bit but make sure you are getting 80-90% hits before moving out.
A good trigger is an absolute must, without it you will chase it & flinch most of the time if you are shooting offhand. Much better to have a good gunsmith do a good trigger job on your gun, you will love it.
Don't fall for the old "poor man's trigger job" hooey on a new model Ruger, get a real trigger job. Those 2 springs are on there for a reason & dropping one off is not going to give you a good trigger, lighter maybe but it will not fix a bad trigger, only a gunsmith can do that.
Bullet choice is always a toss up but shooting cast is cheaper, especially if you cast your own. Some of the best hunters in the world only use jacketed so you'll have to decide when the time comes. For deer about anything works with good bullet placement.
Front sight is key, for many narrowing the front helps a great deal, most factory fronts are .125" wide, maybe a friend has one that's been narrowed so you can compare.
Don't play when you practice, try to make every shot count, no messing around. Good trigger, see the front sight, break the shot & hit the target, 10,000 times & you're on your way to a good start.

Dick

Re: To all lurkers [Re: guitarbob] #172750 09/09/2016 6:34 AM
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 543
ruger4570 Offline
addict
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Posts: 543
Hi, decided to join after seeing this posting. Here is my first big game handgun kill. Used my TC Encore 44 with 2x Nikon scope. Distance, a whopping 18 yards.


Re: To all lurkers [Re: ruger4570] #172755 09/09/2016 9:21 AM
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 2,209
REDHAWK1954 Offline
Pooh-Bah
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Posts: 2,209
Welcome and that is a great buck with any weapon!


Michael Joe Moore
Re: To all lurkers [Re: REDHAWK1954] #172763 09/09/2016 12:57 PM
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 4,669
Chance Weldon Offline
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What a great buck! Congrats!


Formerly TN Lone Wolf

"We are only as strong as we are united, as weak as we are divided." - J.K. Rowling
Re: To all lurkers [Re: ruger4570] #172764 09/09/2016 1:05 PM
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 89
SGalan Offline
journeyman
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Posts: 89
Ruger 4570,

That's a dandy buck! Congrats.

Re: To all lurkers [Re: SGalan] #172765 09/09/2016 1:17 PM
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 9,836
Whitworth Offline
Shootist
Offline
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Posts: 9,836
 Originally Posted By: SGalan
Ruger 4570,

That's a dandy buck! Congrats.


What he said!


Max Prasac

Semper Fidelis

BIG IRON: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6aXjMH5C30

Gun Digest TV's Modern Shooter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGo-KMpXPpA&t=7s

Re: To all lurkers [Re: Chance Weldon] #172766 09/09/2016 1:22 PM
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 1,048
wvhitman Offline
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I started handgun hunting in the late '50s. I had an understanding dad that taught me well as a very young boy.There was no place to lurk. I wanted to kill 1 deer with a handgun and go to Africa to see a lion. I totally gave up rifles in 1978. I've done OK since then.

Re: To all lurkers [Re: ruger4570] #172785 09/09/2016 9:43 PM
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 4,461
pab1 Offline
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That bucks a great start to your handgun hunting! Welcome to the site!


Experience is the best teacher, hunger good sauce.
Osborne Russell Journal of a Trapper


Re: To all lurkers [Re: wvhitman] #172786 09/09/2016 9:46 PM
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 4,461
pab1 Offline
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 Originally Posted By: wvhitman
I've done OK since then.


If you've only done "ok" then I haven't even scratched the surface yet.
;\)


Experience is the best teacher, hunger good sauce.
Osborne Russell Journal of a Trapper


Re: To all lurkers [Re: pab1] #172792 09/09/2016 10:19 PM
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 6,963
KRal Offline
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 Originally Posted By: pab1
 Originally Posted By: wvhitman
I've done OK since then.


If you've only done "ok" then I haven't even scratched the surface yet.
;\)




Lol....I was thinking the same thing.


It takes 43 muscles to frown and 17 to smile, but only 3 for proper trigger squeeze.
Re: To all lurkers [Re: wvhitman] #172794 09/09/2016 10:56 PM
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 2,500
reflex264 Offline OP
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 Originally Posted By: wvhitman
I started handgun hunting in the late '50s. I had an understanding dad that taught me well as a very young boy.There was no place to lurk. I wanted to kill 1 deer with a handgun and go to Africa to see a lion. I totally gave up rifles in 1978. I've done OK since then.


Yessiree I would say you have done OK. I wish I could say I have done as OK as you have!!!


"A quiet hit in the right place is better than a loud miss in the wrong place followed by 10 more shots on the run"

I was a handgun hunter, when handgun wasn't cool.....
Re: To all lurkers [Re: reflex264] #172805 09/10/2016 8:06 AM
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 8
Charles Combs Jr Offline
stranger
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Posts: 8
1st buck Mule Deer I ever killed was with a 4 inch Ruger Security 6 4 inch revolver using a 125 grain jacketed hollow point shot in the neck and this was about 35 years ago. Now hunt with a 454 casull Ruger super redhawk Toklat

Re: To all lurkers [Re: Charles Combs Jr] #172813 09/10/2016 4:47 PM
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 4,461
pab1 Offline
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Welcome to the site Charles!


Experience is the best teacher, hunger good sauce.
Osborne Russell Journal of a Trapper


Re: To all lurkers [Re: pab1] #173065 09/19/2016 3:19 AM
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 601
PsTaN Offline
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I'll gladly add to this thread that I find this to be the best hunting/shooting forum there is. People here are knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful in so many ways. There's always something interesting and new ... it's like supper around the fire at the hunting camp!

P


PsTaN

-Smith & Wesson Model 69
-Ruger Super Blackhawk Hunter
-Encore Pro Hunter

"Hold your horses, the elephants are coming, and out stamped Alabama"
Re: To all lurkers [Re: PsTaN] #173084 09/20/2016 1:41 AM
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 56
glynn41 Offline
journeyman
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Posts: 56
I come here Monday thru Fri every week--
rarely post-- I hunt with my handguns-- a lot during our deer season here in TENN.
sadly I seem to see deer when I have my .358 Win rifle... not my handguns--
just shooting is fun for me and not as messy as field dressing
\:\)

I cast both hollow points and soft points my two calibers-.500 GNR and several .41's of various kinds
this is a very good forum and pleasure to read after

Re: To all lurkers [Re: Chance Weldon] #173208 09/21/2016 11:11 PM
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 2,500
reflex264 Offline OP
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Alright Ron. I know you have read this thread by know. Pull up a log and join in. We don't bite. Well maybe some do but they probably don't have rabies.


"A quiet hit in the right place is better than a loud miss in the wrong place followed by 10 more shots on the run"

I was a handgun hunter, when handgun wasn't cool.....
Re: To all lurkers [Re: reflex264] #173213 09/21/2016 11:29 PM
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 4,461
pab1 Offline
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 Originally Posted By: reflex264
Well maybe some do but they probably don't have rabies.


To be fair I'm still waiting on my test results.
;\)


Experience is the best teacher, hunger good sauce.
Osborne Russell Journal of a Trapper


Re: To all lurkers [Re: pab1] #177449 01/12/2017 10:46 PM
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 164
rougerocco Offline
member
Offline
member
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 164
I know this is an old topic, but I am a lurker! I check this site every day!
Now a little about me, I have owned handguns and carried them hunting for 30 yrs. A couple of years ago I decided I really want to shoot a deer with my SRH .480. So I quit carrying my long gun here in Michigan. No deer yet, but I am going on a hog hunt in Ohio in March. I have been reading and OVER analyzing bullets and loads for this up coming hunt. But I enjoying reading and learning about this like this. Thank You All for your input.

Re: To all lurkers [Re: rougerocco] #177453 01/12/2017 11:39 PM
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,556
junebug Offline
Gun Slinger
Offline
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Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,556
Welcome to the madness.Just hang in there and keep practicing and it will happen.And remember there are no dumb questions, if you want to learn just ask.


junebug
Re: To all lurkers [Re: sixshot] #177528 01/14/2017 7:27 AM
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 4,155
Gregg Richter Offline
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Posts: 4,155
 Originally Posted By: sixshot
To all you new guys, each one of us was in your shoes once too. Maybe it was a long time ago but nobody was born doing it so don't be embarrassed if you haven't shot anything but cans or paper targets, we all started somewhere pretty easy.
First thing is, don't over gun yourself with heavy loads or long distance, either one will ruin your confidence & take much longer to learn the basics.
Hitting is fun so use a load that is comfortable to shoot & do it at a distance that challenges you a bit but make sure you are getting 80-90% hits before moving out.
A good trigger is an absolute must, without it you will chase it & flinch most of the time if you are shooting offhand. Much better to have a good gunsmith do a good trigger job on your gun, you will love it.
Don't fall for the old "poor man's trigger job" hooey on a new model Ruger, get a real trigger job. Those 2 springs are on there for a reason & dropping one off is not going to give you a good trigger, lighter maybe but it will not fix a bad trigger, only a gunsmith can do that.
Bullet choice is always a toss up but shooting cast is cheaper, especially if you cast your own. Some of the best hunters in the world only use jacketed so you'll have to decide when the time comes. For deer about anything works with good bullet placement.
Front sight is key, for many narrowing the front helps a great deal, most factory fronts are .125" wide, maybe a friend has one that's been narrowed so you can compare.
Don't play when you practice, try to make every shot count, no messing around. Good trigger, see the front sight, break the shot & hit the target, 10,000 times & you're on your way to a good start.

Dick


Guess I missed this the first time around...I was hunting muzzleloader season heavily with my Encore 209X50 pistol.

I think Dick said it well...

\:\)








Re: To all lurkers [Re: guitarbob] #178037 01/22/2017 10:22 AM
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 1
Foolish Offline
stranger
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stranger
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 1
I lurked and just made an account but I dont feel like posting because I dont know what to add. I read this article that my friend showed me that's a Glock 19 review which some of you may like http://gunivore.com/pistol/glock-19-gen-4-review-2015/

Re: To all lurkers [Re: Foolish] #178089 01/23/2017 2:26 AM
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 42
bowmag Offline
newbie
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Posts: 42
I've been around for a few years but was primarily a bow hunter, so I never had much to contribute. But as I have gotten older the injuries are adding up and taking a toll on my ability to shoot traditional hunting weight bows. I have always had handguns around but only recently have I gotten more serious about shooting enough to be able to hunt with them. I have learned a lot from y'all and do appreciate your willingness to share.

Re: To all lurkers [Re: bowmag] #181261 06/06/2017 1:32 PM
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 66
Newt Offline
journeyman
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Posts: 66
I know this is an old thread, but here goes nothing. Been a member here for a while and have done a lot of reading. I bought a Ruger SBH for a Christmas present a couple years ago. Topped it with a Leupold 2X scope. Shot it a lot with 240 gr XTPs. Killed a hog with it. Then I took it deer hunting, but for some reason, I just couldn't pull the trigger on the deer. Lack of confidence i suppose. Rediculous, I know. Anyway, I got frustrated with it. I picked it back up this spring and have practicing from field positions a lot. I've decided to leave the rifles at home this year and hunt exclusively with my .44 mag.

I have done quite a bit of squirrel hunting with my Ruger Mark III. Also took it with me on a prairie dog hunt this spring and shot a couple at 25 to 50 yards. Great fun.

I agree with everyone else, this is a great site.

Pat

Re: To all lurkers [Re: Newt] #181262 06/06/2017 2:02 PM
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 9,608
s4s4u Offline
Shootist
Offline
Shootist
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Posts: 9,608
If you are hitting rodents @ 50 yards I'd say you are up to the task when it comes to bigger targets like deer. Do as you said and leave the long gun in the rack. I look forward to seeing the pic of your harvest ;-)


Rod, too.

Short cuts often lead to long recoveries.
Re: To all lurkers [Re: s4s4u] #181263 06/06/2017 2:06 PM
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 66
Newt Offline
journeyman
Offline
journeyman
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 66
Oh I had to kinda walk the bullet up to the dog. It was not my intention to imply any great prowess. But, I'm getting better.

Re: To all lurkers [Re: Newt] #181264 06/06/2017 2:36 PM
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 859
karl Offline
old hand
Offline
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Posts: 859
Practice makes perfect. Dogging is a great way to practice with reactive targets. Take your 44 dogging too! When you connect it tends to be spectacular. Post some pics!

Re: To all lurkers [Re: karl] #181267 06/06/2017 3:19 PM
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 4,669
Chance Weldon Offline
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Posts: 4,669
Good to hear you're back at it. It can definitely take a while to build enough confidence to take a big game animal with it. Heck, it took me years to finally connect on anything other than a paper target with a pistol.


Formerly TN Lone Wolf

"We are only as strong as we are united, as weak as we are divided." - J.K. Rowling
Re: To all lurkers [Re: Chance Weldon] #181288 06/07/2017 12:02 PM
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 76
bullsi1911 Offline
journeyman
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Posts: 76
I'm nit really a lurked since I posted s bunch when I first got into handgun hunting, but have been pretty quiet since then - just reading and learning. Cant wait for hunting season to start- going to try and get an iron sight deer with my EAA 10mm.

Besides the 10, I have a CVA .243 pistol and a Ruger SRH 454.

Re: To all lurkers [Re: bullsi1911] #181352 06/10/2017 1:21 AM
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 57
358TC Offline
journeyman
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Posts: 57
I guess I am a lurker,I love to read your stories,I just don't respond much,I joined Back in 2008,stopped hunting for a few years,going to hunt squirrel and white tail this fall,you guys are the only people I know that handgun hunt,any suggestions on how to get any of my hunting friends to try handgun hunting,they think I'm crazy, thanks

Re: To all lurkers [Re: 358TC] #181354 06/10/2017 2:11 AM
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 9,608
s4s4u Offline
Shootist
Offline
Shootist
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 9,608
 Quote:
they think I'm crazy


Ha, I've been the lone handguner in our deer camp 100% for more than 2 decades and they still think I'm crazy.....


Rod, too.

Short cuts often lead to long recoveries.
Re: To all lurkers [Re: s4s4u] #181706 06/28/2017 11:17 PM
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 83
45BBH Offline
journeyman
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journeyman
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 83
I've never gotten to take anything big with a handgun, just smaller stuff that would maybe be considered pests. However I've had a love for big bore revolvers for a good number of years and I've had .41's, .44's, 45 Colts, 454's a 500 S&W once but my only big bore revolver now is one I just recently purchased, a 6" BFR .475L/480R.

I don't get to hunt much, but hopefully one day I'll be successful and get to go hunting more. I like reading on here not only to learn, but to live vicariously through you guys like in some alternate reality, I got to hunt more.

Re: To all lurkers [Re: 45BBH] #181708 06/29/2017 1:03 AM
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,556
junebug Offline
Gun Slinger
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Gun Slinger
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Handgun hunting is not for everyone.It takes a large amount of determination and perseverance to become proficient with a handgun.For every round my son and I, and most of the people on here fire at game several thousand practice rounds go down range.We love to shoot and do so year round to stay proficient.About all you can do is show people that you are dedicated,serious, and confidant with your choice of firearm and let the results speak for themselves.


junebug
Re: To all lurkers [Re: junebug] #181713 06/29/2017 1:08 PM
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 9,836
Whitworth Offline
Shootist
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Posts: 9,836
 Originally Posted By: junebug
Handgun hunting is not for everyone.It takes a large amount of determination and perseverance to become proficient with a handgun.For every round my son and I, and most of the people on here fire at game several thousand practice rounds go down range.We love to shoot and do so year round to stay proficient.About all you can do is show people that you are dedicated,serious, and confidant with your choice of firearm and let the results speak for themselves.


Very well said.


Max Prasac

Semper Fidelis

BIG IRON: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6aXjMH5C30

Gun Digest TV's Modern Shooter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGo-KMpXPpA&t=7s

Re: To all lurkers [Re: Whitworth] #181726 06/30/2017 12:21 AM
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 601
PsTaN Offline
addict
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Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 601
On 2 days this week I went shooting with my SBH just fine tuning zero and checking a new load. Last week I was doing the same with my Glock 20 ... next week it's Encore's turn. A trip to the camp to shoot is an awesome day!!

I honestly believe I'm the only dedicated Handgun Hunter in this county. In fact, I've had more than one situation where I was asked point blank "are you really killing those good deer with a pistol?" A guy told my Step-Dad he'd let me shoot at him at 100 yards with just a pistol ... to which my Step-Dad responded "you really don't want to do that!" LOL

Last edited by PsTaN; 06/30/2017 12:23 AM.

PsTaN

-Smith & Wesson Model 69
-Ruger Super Blackhawk Hunter
-Encore Pro Hunter

"Hold your horses, the elephants are coming, and out stamped Alabama"
Re: To all lurkers [Re: PsTaN] #181758 07/01/2017 5:55 PM
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,556
junebug Offline
Gun Slinger
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Gun Slinger
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,556


I honestly believe I'm the only dedicated Handgun Hunter in this county. In fact, I've had more than one situation where I was asked point blank "are you really killing those good deer with a pistol?" A guy told my Step-Dad he'd let me shoot at him at 100 yards with just a pistol ... to which my Step-Dad responded "you really don't want to do that!" LOL [/quote]

People are always skeptical about things they know nothing about. Offer to take him shooting ,then show him what pistols are capable of doing.Have a good friend who had a warped stock on his rifle and could not get it sighted in. He swore up and down it was not the problem. I stuck a paper match between barrel and stock and in three shots with him shooting convinced him. He believed you couldn't hit at extended range with a handgun either. Three or four shots at 150 yds. and he just said damn! I didn't believe you. Now he doesn't question why I always hunt with a pistol. Some people you just have to show to get the point across.
\:\)


junebug
Re: To all lurkers [Re: PsTaN] #181882 07/08/2017 2:57 AM
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 4,669
Chance Weldon Offline
Distinguished Expert
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Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 4,669
 Originally Posted By: PsTaN
I honestly believe I'm the only dedicated Handgun Hunter in this county.


Same here. I love the looks I get when I bring a deer to the check in station and mention I got it with a handgun.


Formerly TN Lone Wolf

"We are only as strong as we are united, as weak as we are divided." - J.K. Rowling
Re: To all lurkers [Re: Chance Weldon] #181906 07/08/2017 4:05 PM
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 4,155
Gregg Richter Offline
Distinguished Expert
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Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 4,155
It is plumb foolish that some "uneducated" people think that we are "stuntmen." Yet they don't think twice about folks that hunt with a "stick and string."

Yet, what is kinda funny is that some of those outrageous "hollywood" handgun shots they see made on the bad guys seem to be believable!







Re: To all lurkers [Re: s4s4u] #196208 11/28/2018 5:25 AM
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 1
Guncritic Offline
stranger
Offline
stranger
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 1
Hello,
Ruger Super Blackhawk .44 Magnum. Ruger has staked their notoriety on building extreme, dependable guns at a sensible cost throughout recent years. ... You can't show signs of improvement support on strength than yet, maybe shockingly, the Super Blackhawk (SBH) isn't simply intense, it can likewise be super enjoyable to shoot!

Guncritic
https://www.guncritic.com/

Re: To all lurkers [Re: Guncritic] #196215 11/28/2018 5:00 PM
Joined: Oct 2016
Posts: 306
BushytailBasher Offline
enthusiast
Offline
enthusiast
Joined: Oct 2016
Posts: 306
In the right hands you have all the practical range of a rifle in a package that weighs half as much and is more fun to shoot and carry what's not to love? Lol

Re: To all lurkers [Re: BushytailBasher] #196216 11/28/2018 5:02 PM
Joined: Oct 2016
Posts: 306
BushytailBasher Offline
enthusiast
Offline
enthusiast
Joined: Oct 2016
Posts: 306
Where I hunt here in Ohio I have to intentionally set myself up to shoot over 150 yards anyway unless we got a decent snow on

Re: To all lurkers [Re: BushytailBasher] #196218 11/28/2018 5:18 PM
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 279
Stush Offline
enthusiast
Offline
enthusiast
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 279
 Originally Posted By: BushytailBasher
Where I hunt here in Ohio I have to intentionally set myself up to shoot over 150 yards anyway unless we got a decent snow on


That's true in a lot of locations here in Pennsylvania as well. Most of the places I hunt rarely offer a shot much past 100 yards - ideal places for handgun hunting in my opinion.


Stush
Re: To all lurkers [Re: Stush] #196252 11/29/2018 1:36 PM
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 1,155
Bob Roach Offline
old hand
Offline
old hand
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 1,155
I have discovered the same thing about my shooting distances here in the Missouri Ozarks.
My stand behind the house on the lease has a maximum shot of about 115 yards.
My stand on the South West side of the property has a maximum range of again around 115 yards.
The stand on the South East side of the property my brother hunts has a maximum range of 135 yards.
The wife's Platform Stand on the North East side of the property has a maximum range of probably 250 yards, but you would be shooting back towards the house, and the small lot we put the horses in during deer season. That puts us back to around 150 yards as the maximum in a direction safe to shoot.

I stay amazed how limited most people you encounter think you are with a handgun. I shot a couple rounds at the 200 yard steel in front of a couple rifle shooters the other day. I asked if they could see where I hit. One of them said he saw dust fly below the target, and thought I hit the bottom of the steel with the other shot. I did not think so. I took a couple paint cans down range and repainted the target. When I looked at the target two new splash marks were in the center. After repainting I made one more shot in front of the rifle shooters on the 200 yard target. At the shot the RED Dot went BLACK. I then moved to the 300 yard steel and dinged it twice in the center.

I handgun hunter off and on for years. I have several nice rifles that I liked to hunt with also. That was the reason for the off and on. I started with Contenders in the early 1990's. My first deer barrel was a 7x30 Waters. Then Mark Hampton ordered me a 6.5X30 JDJ, and a 375 JDJ from his friend JD Jones at SSK. Then I picked up my 35 Bullberry barrel from Bullberry Barrel Works. I am now on my second 480 Ruger Super RedHawk. Then we have the CVA Optima Muzzle Loader and a Scout 357 Maximum, and another 357 Maximum Contender barrel.

Then I decided to go bigger and got an Encore Action, then a 260 Remington BullBerry barrel and a 7.62x54R MGM barrel.

Now my problem is deciding which handgun and barrel to hunt with. I have not taken a rifle out in years. I had to decide that I was a handgun hunter, and hunt only with handguns. Thinking back over all the years of deer hunting. Very few deer were taken with a rifle that I could not NOW have made that shot with a handgun.

I really like spending a couple months before season giving the handguns a real work out. Working up loads, casting bullets, etc. You can get way more enjoyment from your hunting handguns than just hunting with them a few days. Then we have hunting site preparations, work on stands, etc. that is also part of the hunting experience.

We like to hear about your hunting preparation. Food Plots, Stands, Rests, Reloading, Wildcats. You name it we enjoy reading about it if it involves handgun hunting.

The better written the story, and the more details given the better. Your hunting story's are even better when we can visualize the hunt from the story you write. We are not all natural writers like Mark Hampton, but give it a try you will keep getting better with your stories.

Bob R



Last edited by Bob Roach; 11/29/2018 1:48 PM.

See You At The Range
Re: To all lurkers [Re: reflex264] #196507 12/09/2018 5:25 PM
Joined: Dec 2018
Posts: 129
RSW Offline
member
Offline
member
Joined: Dec 2018
Posts: 129
I am new to this site but not to handgun hunting. I'm 67 years old and been handgun shooting and hunting for years. I've hunted deer, groundhogs, crows, fox, coyotes, etc. Never joined a site before but this one seems different. Nobody seems to think they are an expert on every aspect of hunting and reloading like I've seen in others. People seem to want to help and encourage others. Howdy to y'all !

Re: To all lurkers [Re: RSW] #196509 12/09/2018 6:06 PM
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 2,209
REDHAWK1954 Offline
Pooh-Bah
Offline
Pooh-Bah
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 2,209
Welcome RAW. I think you described this group very well.


Michael Joe Moore
Re: To all lurkers [Re: REDHAWK1954] #196510 12/09/2018 6:13 PM
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 2,209
REDHAWK1954 Offline
Pooh-Bah
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Pooh-Bah
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 2,209
Typo I was talking to RSW.


Michael Joe Moore
Re: To all lurkers [Re: REDHAWK1954] #196512 12/09/2018 9:31 PM
Joined: Aug 2017
Posts: 1,821
45MAN Offline
Pooh-Bah
Offline
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RSW: I HAVE INCREASED MY KNOWLEDGE IN MANY WAYS ON THIS FORUM.


"ADAPT OR DIE". I USE ALL CAPS, NOT BECAUSE I AM YELLING, BUT BECAUSE IT IS AN OLD HABIT FROM MY ARMY DAYS, PLUS IT IS EASIER TO TYPE AND READ.
Re: To all lurkers [Re: 45MAN] #196542 12/11/2018 7:26 PM
Joined: Oct 2018
Posts: 104
adbhowler Offline
member
Offline
member
Joined: Oct 2018
Posts: 104
I only joined a few months ago and found this place to AWESOME. Great folks that are willing to share their knowledge with no pretense whatsoever. I have learned a bunch and hopefully have provided info to help others as well. You will be hard pressed in this day and age of the "social media quagmire" to find a better bunch of folks sharing and caring about what they love to do.

Just my 2 cents


Mike McBride
---------------
NRA Life Member

Re: To all lurkers [Re: adbhowler] #196907 01/03/2019 1:59 AM
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 4
Rockman Offline
stranger
Offline
stranger
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 4
Time to give this thread a bump, and come out of the shadows. I have lurked here for a couple years, and still lurked after registering a couple months ago. C'mon lurkers join me with all the rest here.

Re: To all lurkers [Re: guitarbob] #197999 03/08/2019 7:14 PM
Joined: Mar 2019
Posts: 3
MaineDude Offline
stranger
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Joined: Mar 2019
Posts: 3
I'm a major lurker! I've probably been lurking here for about 10 years. I really enjoy reading the post and successfull hunts. I'll never be able to do some of the hunts that you all do; However, I like living vicariously through all of you. I'm a reloader, I load rifle and handgun cartridges. I've never killed an animal, other than rimfire, with factory ammo, I reload all my stuff.

I've been handgun hunting all my life, mostly small game. I was raised hunting snowshoe hares with beagles since I was 8, I'm 37 now. I do most of my hare hunting with a Ruger 22/45 and a ruger single ten. I don't take enough pictures. But here are some with my best beagle tank. These were shot with my 4 inch single ten, the one I'm pointing at was an eye shot at 30 yards.
https://i.postimg.cc/5tMQspc9/48982a03-874f-458a-b2a8-ad1588d42f8f.png

https://i.postimg.cc/zGhRw6cP/c44bef55-1758-47de-a268-6f47198548ff.png

I've also had some luck with predator hunting with a handgun.
This is a bobcat that I called and shot with my ruger 22/45 at about 15 yards in the right eye.

https://i.postimg.cc/ryhWqS4g/FB-IMG-1551973977911.jpg

This next one even though it was a very sick coyote, was blind in both eyes and full of porcupine quills. This is my best bragging shot. I called it In and yes hit on first shot, i was in prone position, and coyote was shot through the shoulders at 105 yards, ranged it with finder after it was dead, with my 40 s&w 180 grain gold dots reloads,Glock 27. I was probably very lucky but I'll take it!
https://i.postimg.cc/QxwTTh0T/FB-IMG-1551974220832.jpg

I've shot bigger moose with my rifle but this is my only big game kill with a handgun. A small bull but shot on last day at 12 yards with my M29-3 8 3/8" using 240 grain xtp reloads. Only weighed 700 lbs but what a rush. If I get drawn this year my next Maine moose will be with a handgun again. Hit him in the neck dropped in his tracks.
https://i.postimg.cc/CLz85zH0/FB-IMG-1551973791274.jpg

I'm still after my first Maine buck with a handgun hope it goes 200lbs be my third patch if I do.

Don't know how often I'll post but I'm always lurking. Great forum and cool group of Joe's.




Last edited by MaineDude; 03/08/2019 7:18 PM.
Re: To all lurkers [Re: MaineDude] #198003 03/08/2019 8:34 PM
Joined: Mar 2019
Posts: 33
NYhandgunner Offline
newbie
Offline
newbie
Joined: Mar 2019
Posts: 33
I've done my share of lurking, I just recently joined the forum. I used to belong to HHI back in the 90's when I first got the handgun bug. I enjoyed reading "The Sixgunner" and now I enjoy reading everything on the forum. Most of my hunting is whitetails here in NY, and the occasional black bear. However I did make it to Alaska to hunt caribou with my FA 454, and my 305gr BRP handloads.. I began my handgun hunting with a Smith 629, 8 3/8" bbl. But that was just the beginning because pistols are like potato chips, can't have just one. After that I had John Linebaugh build a 45 with bowen rear sight and an Elmer Keith front sight with gold bars, then a FA 454 topped with a 2x Leupold, 20 years later I added a Glock 20, 10mm topped with an RMR. Now I got bit again and I found out that MR's BFR are now being made in 500 Linebaugh, always wanted one of those, but they were a little steep for me going the custom route. So, I now have one on order so hopefully in 2-3 months that should be coming in. That will be topped with an Ultra dot Matchdot II.

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