I love hunting with a handgun. That is all that I have used for deer hunting for the last 6 years. Have gone 6 for 6 with 6 shots. That ought to wreck that streak having said that!
I currently use a Smith & Wesson 500 Mag. with a Nikon red dot sight mounted on it. Very accurate and a fun gun to shoot. I also have a Magnum Research Lone Eagle in 30-06. Another fun gun to shoot.
Both handguns have porting so you need hearing protection (Walkers Game Ear works great) and you need to keep your mouth closed when shooting or the muzzle blast will let you know where each of your fillings are located.
Not the handguns I would advise a first time handgun hunter to use, but a blast nonetheless.
Payne