most of my handguns are scoped. 1x4to 2.5x8.I usually have a rest of some kind when I'm hunting. On my 44SBH I have a 1x4 Burris.I still use a rest when possible with it. I have a set of sightsThat fit on top of the scope rings that allow me to use iron sights for close ,fast shots.I don't know if they are still made,they are called S.O.S. .Sight Over Scope rings.
I keep my variables on the lowest power till I find a target,then ,if time and conditions allow it,I crank up the X's.My sixty year old eyes need all the help they can get.I have used a friends T/C with a 12x scope when shooting his 22-250 XP at ground hogs in a huge field.