Handgun selection for hunters falls into one of two categories: hunting and self-defense. It’s possible to get a pistol that does both, but it’s typically ideal to separate those two in your head. Stocking handguns that are suited to hunting applications and additional models that work for self-defense against two- and four-legged predators is a smart move. These are some of the best handgun options currently available for hunters, and we’re going to tell you why they work and which category they belong in. Remember, there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all hunting handgun.

Nosler Model 48 Independence Pistol

It’s easy to forget bolt-action pistols are handguns, but they are. The Nosler Model 48 Independence Pistol is a high-quality bolt pistol designed for hunters according to exacting specifications. The stock is one-piece, billet aluminum for superior strength and rigidity, and the action is carefully bedded. This is a single-shot pistol made for fantastic precision and durability, both of which are vital details for handgun hunters. 

Features of the Model 48 Independence specifically cater to hunters, right down to available calibers. It’s offered in .223 Remington, 6mm Creedmoor, and 6.5 Creedmoor. Short-action calibers are great for a variety of game, and the Creedmoor options are ideal for hunters looking to stretch out their handgun hunting distance. The barrel is 15 inches in length, which delivers solid ballistics, and it’s threaded to allow the easy addition of muzzle devices. The pistol is drilled and tapped to simplify adding optics. And although it ships with a standard black Hogue pistol grip, it’s also compatible with AR-15 pattern pistol grips, meaning customers can change the grip to whatever they prefer.

This hunting-specific bolt pistol is good for a wide range of game, including prairie dogs, coyotes, turkey and deer. It’s a good idea to suggest shooting sticks to go with it for a stable platform while hunting. MSRP $1,775.

Ruger SR1911 Target

For hunters interested in a pistol that can be used for both self-defense and hunting, there’s the Ruger SR1911 Target in 10mm. This is a single-stack 1911 with an 8 +1 capacity, and although some customers might feel that’s too limited, it’s great for this use. When you’re carrying an all-stainless-steel gun chambered in a big bore like 10mm, weight can become an issue. Utilizing the traditional single-stack design cuts weight while providing enough ammo for a successful hunt — or to stop a threat, be it human or animal.

The SR1911 is a solidly built, Government-sized gun. Its 5-inch barrel gives hunters greater accuracy and ballistics than they’d get from a more compact model, and its empty weight of 40.4 ounces offers the added bonus of mitigating felt recoil. The 10mm is an ideal multi-use caliber for handgun hunters because the felt recoil and muzzle rise aren’t extreme like a magnum pistol, but the caliber still provides enough bullet diameter, velocity and energy to drop targets. The reason we recommend 10mm for self-defense in the woods is because it’s easier to control than magnum loads, allowing the hunter to fire accurate, rapid follow-up shots. 

This carry-friendly 1911 can drop feral hogs and deer at appropriate distances and also functions as a reliable self-defense gun. Remind customers to check their local laws regarding handgun carry during the various hunting seasons. MSRP $1,299.

Colt Anaconda

There’s a lot to be said for a quality revolver, and not only is the Colt Anaconda well-made, but it’s also a nod to history. The first run of this model ended in 1999, but Colt released this updated version of the original Anaconda in 2021. Yes, this is a .44 Magnum — that’s almost a must for a classic hunting handgun — with a six-shot capacity. This model is available with various barrel lengths, but it’s the 8-inch model that’s perfect for handgun hunting. Of course, if you’d like to stock an Anaconda that’s better suited to versatile applications, you might consider getting the 6-inch model in. 

The Colt Anaconda is a double-action/single-action revolver, which is a plus for customers who don’t want a double-action- or single-action-only gun. The trigger pull is smooth with a clean, crisp break, something that’s helped along by Colt’s Linear Leaf Spring Action. Black rubber Hogue grips with finger grooves come standard. The Anaconda ships with a red ramp front sight and black rear sight, but the sights are replaceable if your hunter prefers high-vis options. And if they want optics — something that’s great to have when you’re hunting with long-barreled revolvers — this gun is drilled and tapped for easy installation of rings. A ventilated rib helps cool the barrel. 

This handgun is a nice fit for handgun hunters interested in experiencing their hunt with a revolver — or with a classic magnum. It’s awesome for deer but accurate and effective enough for just about any game animal, provided the hunter shoots from a reasonable effective range.  MSRP $1,499.

Browning Buck Mark Contour Pro

Although the Browning Buck Mark Contour Pro is designed with competitive shooters in mind, it’s also an ideal pistol for hunters focused on rimfire. Hunting with a .22 LR is done quite a bit by hunters running traps or simply chasing small pests and varmints. The fact that the latest addition to the Buck Mark family is made for precision is a big bonus, because when hunters and trappers have tiny targets, shot placement needs to be perfect. 

This .22 LR pistol is a semi-automatic with a 10 +1 capacity. Barrel length is just over 5 inches, and the muzzle end is threaded for easy addition of a suppressor (or other devices). The gun does ship with a compensator, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take the opportunity to show customers compatible aftermarket muzzle devices. A TRUGLO/Marble Arms fiber optic front sight and Pro-Target white-outlined adjustable rear sight come standard. There’s also a Picatinny rail over the receiver and on the underside of the barrel, so be sure to recommend the addition of a good red-dot sight or optic. G10 grips give hunters a comfortable gripping surface, and the gold-plated trigger delivers a nice, clean break.

It’s important to remember rimfires for handgun hunting. Many times, all we think about is big bores or revolvers, but there’s far more to hunting than those alone. Customers focused on rabbits, skunks, groundhogs and other size-appropriate game and varmints benefit greatly from a well-made rimfire. This .22 LR is a great option for hunters who require only a small caliber and demand the best from their handguns. MSRP $799.99.

Smith & Wesson Model 350

For customers interested in newer calibers, there’s the Smith & Wesson Model 350. This revolver is excellent for handgun hunting, and thanks to its chambering, it means caliber compatibility for hunters with rifles also in 350 Legend. After all, if someone is spending time outdoors with a long gun and a handgun, it can be nice to only need to carry extra ammunition in a single caliber. This is also a capable, effective round for a variety of game, including deer.

The Smith & Wesson Model 350 is an X-Frame Series extra-large revolver with a seven-shot capacity. That last detail makes it a good choice for hunters interested in greater capacity than many revolvers offer. In addition, the gun’s 7.5-inch barrel is a nice length for enhanced accuracy as well as improved ballistics. That doesn’t mean it can’t be open carried in a holster, because it absolutely can be. This is a gun that could also be used for self-defense in the woods, although how rapidly the hunter can manage follow-up shots will depend on size and skill. The Model 350 weighs 71.5 ounces empty, and that bulk does quite a bit to reduce felt recoil and muzzle rise.

This revolver gives handgun hunters the best of both worlds — hunting and self-defense — without sacrificing barrel length. It’s true that it isn’t the type of pistol you’d recommend someone use as a daily carry, but for defensive use while hunting, it functions nicely. MSRP $1,679.

Stock the correct ammunition for handgun hunters to ensure your customers get everything they need without delay. There are numerous quality options on the market, but one standout is the Hornady Handgun Hunter line. Hornady designed this ammunition to not only meet but exceed the demands of dedicated hunters. For example, the creation of large, permanent wound cavities is facilitated by an elastometer in the open nose of the bullets that compresses on impact for faster, wider expansion. Those bullets are the company’s copper alloy Monoflex design, chosen for deeper penetration and superior weight retention.  

Hornady Handgun Hunter ammunition is designed for consistent performance and accuracy, so hunters can have successful outings. This family of ammunition is extensive enough to cover a variety of calibers, and every load performs well. Available calibers include 10mm, .44 Magnum, .454 Casull, and .460 Smith & Wesson. You can ensure customers get the greatest possible performance in the field by keeping high-quality ammunition such as this in stock.

MSRP varies by caliber and quantity.