When Modern hunting with the family I carry a Ruger Super Redhawk in either .44 or .454 cal. My wife carries one and I the other. This year she will most likely carry the .40 cal she got for Christmas. When muzzleloading I carry a .44 in black powder cap and ball. I always figure it is a heck of alot easier to swing around a pistol than a rifle if you get knocked down by some critter. Also the pistol allows for faster follow up shots. Another nice thing about large bore magnums is you can legally kill a big game animal with one. Except the black powder. I also usually have a few bird shot rounds for the "dummy hens" that just stand on branches and watch you. BANG! Grouse for dinner.