RE: Hunting pistols
There are pistols then there are hand-rifles. I like and use both but For a pistol I would get the 44 Mag Ruger single action Hunter. For a hand rifle. (contender, striker), There are many good calibers but my pick would be the 7mm-08. If moose or elk were the main target then the Contender or Encore in 445 Mag or 45-70 would be a good choice. The 44 Mag is every bit enough pistol for everything but Grizzly. Only one pistol? 44 mag Blackhawk or Redhawk. IMO.