You know Bigcountry you are right the 44 would be a bit much for a beginer but with time they could learn. The Scope suggestion was ment for when you are just taking it out Deer Hunting. I don't know however this is an intresting topic because you don't think using your quick to reach home deffence Pistol to double as a Hunting side arm aswell. I'm not saying it's possible however the answer to this topic would be to see which cal 357MAG and above would better fit your shooting ability. Another option would be a 357MAG W/6inch barrel and then a 20 Gage shot gun for home deffence.