Since you are talking back pack hunting,weight might be an issue. A little pricey for my taste,but those new model Ruger Bearcats are nice little handguns. I think they come in 22 mag now,but not sure. A 22 mag is going to take care of any needs you listed.
My experience and opinion only,but I have not shot any DOA semis that don't have horendous trigger pull. I would at least want one that is single action for the 1st round
