I hunted squirrels in my youth with a cheapo FIE 22 pistol, but always stuck to bow, 50 caliber Hawken muzzleloader, or .30 class rifle for deer hunting and a Rem 11-87 12 gauge for turkeys. A recent surprise encounter with a big boar while toting only a .22 has made me reconsider having a bigger hunting handgun on my hip. :-)

I plan to hunt deer (primary usage) and hogs with it. I also like the idea of pistol hunting for pronghorn and elk as I do a lot of still hunting and stalking and a long gun kind of cramps my style. I'm considering options including a T/C Encore in a medium strength rifle caliber (maybe 7mm-08) or perhaps a S&W or Ruger revolver. Recommendations always appreciated.

Most of all, I'm looking forward to learning much from the rest of you in this forum!