I pistol hunted for years and enjoyed it but discipline and practice is a must. I would recommend you start w/ a 22 mag revolver scoped for squirrels. This gives you a good feel for the change syou will have ot make to becom eproficient in pistol shooting, patience, shot placement etc. The start reading about rounds for pistols and what and where you would pistol hunt.the 22 Mag is cheaper to shoot, learn on and make the decision if you want to go that route. Look at used pistols after season as a lot of guys get rig of them when they can't John wayne a shot at game. Good Luck!