Depends are where you are going to hunt. There are a wide variety of hunting restrictions in the States. We went to RSA to hunt with muzzleloaders and followed regular firearms regulations because we could get no clear picture from them as to what, if any special regulations they had. I wouldn't try entering any of the African countries with a handgun of any sort. A .58 caliber Enfield is capable of hunting a lot of big game... if you can find one that is accurate enough. Most of them are not because they are reproductions and sights are not readily adjustable. I've taken elk and black bear with .58 Civil War replicas but both were at ranges of less than 40 yards. The power was excellent and both animals dropped on the spot. But I've given up on finding a good straight shooting replica.