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John, the 8 3/8 inch compensated model is optimal although the shorter barrels are no slouch either. Virtually any north American big game can be taken no issue. https://www.budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/26652/smith+%26+wesson+500+5rd+500smith+%26+wesson+magnum+838%22

Get model 163501 ( https://gun.deals/search/apachesolr_search/163501 ). It comes with a muzzle brake and a compensator to deal with the recoil. It will make the gun MUCH MORE comfortable to shoot. And you can take down every big game in North America with no issue. I hope this helps!