For medium to large game I have some successful options,much depends on length of shots and COMMON AMMO.
0-50 yards 12 gauge 00 Buck
0 to 150 yards .357/38 lever action carbine...light ,flat,easy to carry,lower cost ammo (44 special/44 magnum for more short range power)
0 - 150 yards 30-30 in your choice of gun from single shot,lever,bolt action
0 to 500 yards .308 ,270,30-06' or choice of flame throwing magnums if you like your meat cooked
My favorite is the 38 special/357 magnum lever gun , mine is a 16 inch stainless steel and wood Taurus and has ,with open sights,taken deer at 150 yards plus easily and is easy to carry in thick brush...in the real world,few shots on game are at longer distance in Ark or Louisiana.