H., if you go with the Ruger carbine you'll have to get a used one. They quit making them in 1985. They are around $800. I really think you will like a GOOD low power scope better for night work and a deer bayed in the bushes. IMO a 40 is a mighty light caliber for this job. 357 SIG or 357 mag minimum. I rarely use the crimson trace laser but I love the TRITIUM FIBER OPTIC sights on my pistol. They glow in the sunlight and at night. I usually don't carry the rifle unless I am going in to the bayed deer unless like Fred said I have the hunter carry it unloaded with the ammo in my pocket. It is way easier to make a 70 yards shot with a rifle than a 35 yards shot with a pistol and 30 yards is usually about when the deer breaks bay.