Use to have a Ruger Super Blackhawk years ago, got a RCBS press, dies, etc. Really shot the heck out of that gun. Actually got quite good shooting a .44 mag!!

Decided to use that gun for deer one season and ended up taking 3 shots one particular morning while up in a treestand. Let me just say this, after wearing ear protection while target shooting, I decided on not wearing any that morning due to being able to hear any approaching game. Huge mistake...
afterwards I couldn't hear for almost 3 days!!! Right then and there decided and going back to a long gun..............

Thats the only problem I have with hunting with a large caliber pistol, the noise!

Of course you can wear earplugs, but then you're handicapped against the deer. I myself, have to be able to hear in the woods.

You either save your hearing and go without hearing the deer, or you just tough it out and blast your drums out.

Other than that, it is fun to handgun hunt. I don't wear earplugs when I do handgun hunt. Also, try a 300 grain Speer bullet if you handload. If they will group well in your pistol, they are deadly on deer. The extra weight helps. They are finicky with 300 grain bullets for the most part though but some will shoot them good.

Being able to be deadly with a pistol is about like bowhunting. It takes alot of practice and if you lay off awhile, it's like you have never shot a pistol when you start back. Just have to shoot alot. I recommend handloading if you don't already.

Check the local game laws for regulations on barrel length. Some states require at least a 6" barrel. Use proper and consistent grip, form and aiming. I would buy a 22LR heavy barrel revolver with iron sights for practice. I have a 44 Mag with a 9.5" barrel and use my 22LR revolver a lot for practicing. See if you have an NRA club in the area and take the NRA Basic Pistol Course. If you use the proper form, the recoil of a 44 Mag with good grips in very manageable.