One problem I see with rifle/shotgun combination guns (one gun with two barrels) is that you could run afoul of local hunting regulations. Here in California some public land is designated as shotgunonly and mere possession of a rifle or pistol in these areasis a violation whether or not you are actually hunting with the rifle barrel. During the Spring Turkey season possession of a rifle while hunting is prohibitedon public lands opened for turkey hunting.

As others have mentioned above it might be best to get a 12 gauge shotgun that could be used for birds and small game and on deer, albeit at shorter range than a rifle, with slugs or buckshot.

Caldoc