I usually take a "back-up" scoped gun in case something happens to the primary one. If it is not my primary, the usual backup is my FA 41 mag revolver. I do not carry a second gun on me when I am hunting. No need for the extra weight & hassle where I hunt.

If I am carrying a belt gun when not armed with a primary hunting handgun, it is most often my FA M97 in 45 Colt.

It's more important where you hit 'em, than what you hit 'em with.