In MD, you can use 'modern handguns' (as opposed to muzzleloaders) in the areas where you could hunt with a rifle otherwise:
There are specific requirements, a 6in barrel length and a minimum muzzle energy of 700 ftlbs. Most people use large caliber revolvers or dedicated single-shot hunting pistols, but there folks who have specialized semi-autos built to satisfy those parameters. It's a challenge, more like archery hunting on closer in distances (up to 50 yards). I don't think any ethical hunter would try to take a deer at 200 yards with a pistol.
This story sounds fishy. In northern MN someone offed a business partner with a .300 WSM from a distance trying to make it look like a random hunting accident.
