Alsatian, I only carry a sidearm when elk hunting. Mainly because I carry a rifle with a 26" barrel AND a muzzlebrake, making it close to 28". I've found that if I have to go into the really thick stuff to 'finish' a bull, the shot can be close. My Super Redhawk in 44 with 300 grainers, allows me to swing easy and quick in the heavy timber. Also, it hits like a hammer at close range. I've tried that crawling over and under stuff with a rifle and have found that I can be alot more effective with the 44.