enough for deer ?

al57

April 15, 2002 11:58

if shots are limited to 25 yards broadside, do you experienced handgun hunters consider a .44 spl loaded with 180 gr. jhp's at 1100-1200 fps a responsible whitetail load?

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  sjc1

  April 15, 2002 12:03

  I have used a load very close to the one you are going to use. Shot the deer broadside at around 40 yards. The deer ran about 30 yards and then dropped. The shot took the top of the heart off and exited on the other side. This is my only experience with the 44 Special and deer.

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  gap1916

  April 15, 2002 12:08

  I would use the jacketed soft point. The weight and fps should be fine at 25 yards. The 44mag or 41 mag would be better. Hand loads of 45 long colt work well also. I try and stay at the 210 grains and move it at 1100 fps. My 2 cents

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  scott5792

  April 15, 2002 12:15

  If it's any help. My mom used to hunt with a 357. No idea what she was shooting. I only saw her go out with it 3 times. 2 of those she had a deer.She preferred he 30-30
  Scott

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  JustC

  April 15, 2002 13:32

  where I live, it has to produce 700lbs of muzzel energy and exit from a 6" or longer barrel. Caliber is unimportant. If you have the energy, I say go for it.
  
  
  
  When in doubt...empty the magazine!!

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  vol fan

  April 15, 2002 13:47

  I would give a strong recommendation to the Hornady 200 gr XTP. Over several years we tried 265 grains; no expansion at all; 240 grains; not significantly better; 200s seem to have it all on deer, javelina, and big hogs.
  
  There seem to be two choices: collect a lot of stars.........or have a life!

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