Deer bullets should be selected to match the game. Compared to other big game species, deer are rather small and fragile of frame. A bullet designed to shoot through a 3/4-ton moose likely will not expand fast enough for a quick kill on a whitetail.

Likewise, a bullet designed to blast a small rodent might explode on a big buck's shoulder and not penetrate the vital areas. Lighter bullets, in a given caliber, are usually designed for lighter game. A 100-grain 6mm bullet is a "deer" bullet while a 100-grain .270 bullet is best for pests. In the .30/06, bullets from 150 to 180 grains work well.

Spitzer bullets retain velocity better for long-range shooting. Very long-range shooting demands high velocity and bullets that expand reliably out where velocity has dropped off. This same combination can cause bullet blow-up on short-range shots. Except for this situation or when asking a small bullet (.25 or less) to do a big job, the super-tough "premium" bullets aren't needed for deer hunting.


Stop and Go for Bucks
by Ricky Joe Bishop

Where hunting pressure is light and a hunter can safely stalk, a combination of "stand and stalk" works well, particularly during the midday period. This consists of moving slowly and alertly, then stopping for a half hour or so when you come upon a particularly nice spot. On areas you know well, you can pre-plan your route and favorite stopping points.

As with all deer hunting, you must watch the wind so that your scent doesn’t precede you or blow across your selected "looking" spot. Boots with soft flexible soles are less noisy. You should wear soft-finished clothing to lessen brush noise. Moving along old roads and trails can be very quiet.

Look for parts of deer or for small movements rather than expecting to see the whole deer plainly. Listen closely for telltale sounds of deer moving or feeding.

This tactic can be very effective during the rut, when bucks are more active during daylight hours and normal patterns and routines are disrupted.