For hunting, target, SHTF I have a Ruger 1022. I don't have mine scoped and just use the iron sights.
Now for legalities (say you ever did want to hunt with it before SHTF)- This os for DE only -You can only hunt with a handgun if the barrel is 6 inches or longer and must be a larger caliber like .357 and up and are south of the canal. Rifles that are .22 can be used to hunt south of the canal.
I prefer the rifle only because they are that more accurate. That and my eyes get worse and worse every few years!
Also they are cheap as hell to go shoot at the range! Makes for a fun day of plinking and seeing what you can do
Also great for small game in a SHTF scenario are pellet guns. I have one that shoots something 1200FPS and will take down groundhogs/raccoons too if you hit them right. Which are much cheaper than 22's and ammo is easily and readily available.