G2 Contender Questions from a Soon to be Newbie Pistol Hunte

[WNY_Whitetailer]

OK...I don't have my pistol permit yet but I am doing some early shopping and getting ready for the time when I am approved by Niagara County to carry a pistol.

First, I am looking for recommendations on a G2 Contender that I can use for whitetail hunting at ranges no more than 125 yards.  I was thinking either a 44 Rem Mag in the 12" or 14" barrel configuration.  The 357 Mag in 12" could also be a consideration if you think that it will reach out to 125 yards.  I am a little skeptical of that though.

I do not reload(at least not yet) so I want to buy a caliber that is readily available over the counter.  If you guys have any recommendations on other calibers they certainly are welcome...

Second,  I will also be looking for a reasonably priced scope for this baby.  I looked at the TC 1.25-4x28 or 2.5-7x28 scopes...I have found them for low $200's on the net.  I'm sure there are other offerings from Bushnell, etc.

Thanks in advance...

[Gregory]

I don't think you'd regret getting a 12" 44 Mag.  I'd recommend a fixed 2 power scope.  My pick in a 2X is Nikon.  A fixed 2X will cover all your deer hunting needs with a 44 Mag.  Save the variable power scope (and your money) for your first bottlenecked cartridge Contender barrel.

[Hopalong7]

Yep, 12" .44Mag, 2X fixed power scope...sounds like a great way to get started in a great sport....Hangun Huntin'...go for it.  I might also reccomend a .22lr in same length and scope and practice, practice and practice.  Welcome, and GOOD SHOOTIN',  Walt  

[skb2706]

Make you a sweet deal on a Burris 2x pistol scope in very good condition. That on top of a 12" 44 mag would make a great 100 yd whitetail gun.

[raynor]

Don't overlook the 30/30, shells can be found just about anywhere. Should work great for the range your talking. ~~ raynor

[Thomas Krupinski]

Second,  I will also be looking for a reasonably priced scope for this baby.  I looked at the TC 1.25-4x28 or 2.5-7x28 scopes...I have found them for low $200's on the net.  I'm sure there are other offerings from Bushnell, etc.

The 30/30 would be the way to go in your situation.  I think depending upon your type of hunting a 10" would probably work fine and balance better for shooting without a rest.  Nothing wrong with the longer ones, I have both 10's and 14's.  

On top of that I would suggest a T/C Recoil Proof scope, fixed power or variable, but with the lighted rectiule.  You can probably get one that is used rather reasonably from Ed's Contenders or from some one on this site if you post looking for one in the classifieds section(s).  The nice part about the T/C scopes is that in addition to the price you only have to buy it once with their warranty.

[Gregory]

Don't overlook the 30/30, shells can be found just about anywhere. Should work great for the range your talking. ~~ raynor

WNY_Whitetailer
When I lived in NY state (1979-1989) there was a 35 cal min for handgun deer hunting.  Has the current law changed?

[WNY_Whitetailer]

Thanks for the info guys...I will take it all to heart when I am given the ok to purchase a handgun...

Gregory, here is an excerpt from the NY State DEC Website...


Descriptions of Legal Implements for Big Game Hunting

Bow- Long (stick), recurve or compound bow with a draw weight in excess of 35 pounds. A legal arrowhead is nonbarbed, has 2 or more cutting edges and is at least 7/8 inches wide.
 
Muzzleloader- Firearm loaded through the muzzle, a minimum bore of .44 inches and shooting a single projectile. Scopes may now be used during the Special Muzzleloading Season in addition to the Regular Big Game Season and the Early Bear Season. See Muzzleloading section of regulations for special requirements during the muzzleloading season.

Handgun*- any centerfire pistol or revolver. Barrel length maximum is 16 inches

Shotgun*- Must be 20 gauge of larger and fire a single projectile, rifling in the barrel or choke is allowed
 
Rifle* - any centerfire rifle.

The handgun requirements only state that you must use a centerfire pistol or revolver.  The 30/30 should be good to go.

Thanks again all...
Mike