Most excellent! I find the recoil of 450 Marlin to be intense with a rifle. I can't imagine shooting it in a pistol. Good show. That is a great looking buck.
As Jim noted above, a hard handle makes it easier on your hands. Here is a photo of the modifications I made: a heavier rope, and a piece of 1" PVC tubing for a handle. I allowed a little extra rope until I learned what length I liked. The way I show it is about right (maybe still a bit long)...
Since I planned to deer hunt in a remote area this year, I decided to purchase a Jet Sled. This decision was based in part on a recommendation by JD338. I was pleasantly surprised by how well it has worked for me.
There are a few sizes and color variations of the Jet Sled. See...