14 Pistols Hunters Use Once Then Store in the Safe

Daniel Whitaker

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October 21, 2025

A mix of sig and glocks pistols sitting on a table along with a smoke grenade and some bullets.

You can own a pistol that serves a clear, limited role during a hunt and then returns to the safe for long-term storage. Hunters choose certain handguns for specific tasks, such as a last resort for self-defense, finishing a wounded animal, or carrying as a backup while on remote trips. After that single use the firearm is often cleaned, documented, and stored securely. Knowing why each model earns a spot in your kit helps you respect safety and preserve memories.

Ruger Super Redhawk

Close-up of tattooed arms aiming and firing a revolver in an indoor shooting range.
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You should notice why the Ruger Super Redhawk appeals as a heavy-hitting revolver for big game trips into bear country. Its solid frame and large calibers offer psychological confidence and reliable function when you need a sidearm for extreme situations. Many hunters fire it once to test or to respond to a sudden threat, then clean it thoroughly and store it back in a locked safe. The Super Redhawk often becomes a dependable emergency tool that rarely sees day-to-day use.

Smith And Wesson 686 Stainless

Smith And Wesson 686 Stainless Pistol
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You can appreciate the Smith and Wesson 686 for its blend of handling and stopping power during hunting trips. This stainless revolver balances weight and accuracy, making it a common choice when you want a compact but capable backup. After serving as a one-time protector or finishing tool, hunters often document the moment, perform routine maintenance, and return the pistol to secure storage. Its durability makes it a trusted option you keep ready but rarely rely on.

Colt Python Classic

Colt-Python
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You should respect the Colt Python for its legendary trigger and craftsmanship that some hunters bring along on special outings. Often treated as a ceremonial or sentimental sidearm, it might be fired once in the field to address an urgent need. Owners tend to care for Pythons meticulously, cleaning and oiling the parts after use before placing the handgun back in a safe. Its legacy and smooth operation make it a prized piece that sees careful, infrequent field service.

Ruger GP100 Rugged

Ruger GP100 .357 Stainless
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You can carry a Ruger GP100 when you want a rugged and reliable revolver that tolerates rough conditions. Hunters pick it for straightforward functionality when they expect to encounter unpredictable environments. After a one-time deployment in camp or on a trail, the GP100 usually goes through cleaning and inspection, then returns to secure storage. Its reputation for toughness means it earns a place in the safe, whether or not you call on it again soon.

Smith And Wesson Model 29

Smith & Wesson Model 29 retouched
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You should consider the Model 29 if you value a classic big bore that inspires confidence in remote wilderness. Famous for its potent chamberings, it serves as a heavy-hitting backup during the riskiest hunts. Many hunters shoot it to confirm function or in response to a rare threat, then treat it with careful maintenance and store it away. Its iconic status and raw power make it a memorable tool you take seriously and keep protected.

Glock 20 Reliable

Top view of a Glock pistol, bullets, and flashlight on a black surface, showcasing firearms and ammunition.
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You can opt for a Glock 20 for a semi-automatic option that holds larger calibers while offering easy reloads if needed. Hunters appreciate its magazine capacity and straightforward controls for backup duty. After a demanding trip where it might see a round or two, owners usually perform a detailed cleaning and secure it in a locked safe. The Glock 20’s durability and simple design help it serve as a practical, rarely used companion on remote trips.

SIG Sauer P320 Versatile

SIG Sauer P320 Versatile Pistol
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You should value the SIG Sauer P320 for its modularity and consistent trigger that make it suitable for diverse hunting scenarios. Hunters sometimes choose it when they want a modern platform that fits multiple hand sizes. If it gets used in the field, the pistol receives careful inspection and maintenance before being stored securely. Its adaptability and build quality give you a handgun that performs well when called upon and then rests safely until needed again.

Browning Buck Mark Target

Browning-Buck-Mark-URX
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You can bring a Browning Buck Mark if you want a precise, low-recoil pistol for training or small game tasks that occasionally arise on trips. Its accuracy helps with practice at camp and with tasks that require careful aim. After a one-time field use, you will clean and check all parts before placing them back in storage. The Buck Mark’s comfortable ergonomics and reliable trigger encourage occasional use followed by careful preservation.

Taurus Raging Hunter

Taurus Raging Hunter Pistol
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You should consider a Taurus Raging Hunter when you want heavy caliber capacity in a relatively compact revolver for remote defense. Its design helps you feel prepared in rugged terrain where options are limited. If you ever need to fire it during an expedition, proper cleaning and inspection follow, and you will return it to a safe. The Raging Hunter represents practicality for hunters who want a serious backup without daily carry.

Smith And Wesson Governor Hybrid

Smith And Wesson Governor Hybrid pistol
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You can use a Smith and Wesson Governor for its flexibility to accept different cartridges and for quick, intuitive handling when surprises occur. Hunters like the option of using varied loads depending on the mission. After any field use, the Governor benefits from careful cleaning and checks before heading back to storage. Its versatility and approachable ergonomics make it a sensible single-use tool that owners keep secured between trips.

Colt Single Action Army Heritage

Colt Single Action Army Heritage Pistol
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The Colt Single Action Army is prized for its historic feel and straightforward operation, often favored by hunters who value ritual or tradition. It may see a ceremonial firing or be used during a specific moment on a hunt, then be polished and stored with reverence. Collectors and hunters alike handle this classic carefully, returning it to secure storage where it remains ready but seldom used on routine outings.

FN Five Seven Lightweight

FN Five Seven Lightweight Pistol
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You can choose an FN Five Seven when you seek a lightweight semi-automatic that balances capacity with ergonomics for unusual field needs. Its design appeals to hunters who want a modern, manageable pistol for rare defensive scenarios. After being used during an exceptional event, you will deep-clean and inspect it, then lock it away safely. The Five Seven’s modern lines and control features make it a thoughtful one-time tool for responsible owners.

Ruger LCR Compact

Ruger-LCR-38-sp-front-quarter
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The Ruger LCR is an easy-to-carry, low-profile revolver that many hunters keep as an emergency option during close encounters. Its compact size makes it convenient for limited situations in the backcountry. After any defensive use, it receives maintenance and servicing before being returned to secure storage. The LCR’s light weight and simplicity give it a practical role that rarely requires repeated use.

Browning Hi Power Classic

Browning Hi Power Classic Pistol
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The Browning Hi-Power features a classic design and a comfortable grip suited to deliberate shooting when needed. Hunters who value traditional ergonomics often keep this pistol for special applications on trips. After any field firing, thoroughly clean and functional checks return it to the safe in top condition. Its refined balance and feel encourage careful, occasional use followed by secure storage.

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