Hey all, I'm going handgun deer hunting for the first time on Saturday. I'll be using a Taurus .44 magnum with a 6.5 inch barrel.
Illinois law prohibits FMJ ammunition for deer but that seems to be the only restriction. Since I decided to use the Taurus I've been practicing with it and I feel pretty confident with it. However, I've been wondering what the best bullet choice would be. Whitetails are large where I'm going; a doe in the 150-200 lb range wouldn't be out of the question. I don't plan to take a shot farther than 30 yards unless I have to.
Should I opt for jacketed hollow points (I have some 240gr) semi-jacketed solids, or lead? Semi-Jacketed solids with soft lead noses seem like the best choice, and I've practiced with the 300gr variety from a local company enough to know I can hit well with them.
My theory is that since overpenetration is not a problem and stopping power may be lacking compared to the trusty shotgun, better to stick with a solid to have a better chance of breaking bone and of an exit wound. I'd like to hear your opinions. I'm heading to the range to check the zero and practice one more time tomorrow, and I'd like to do it with the ammo I plan to use. Thanks!
Illinois law prohibits FMJ ammunition for deer but that seems to be the only restriction. Since I decided to use the Taurus I've been practicing with it and I feel pretty confident with it. However, I've been wondering what the best bullet choice would be. Whitetails are large where I'm going; a doe in the 150-200 lb range wouldn't be out of the question. I don't plan to take a shot farther than 30 yards unless I have to.
Should I opt for jacketed hollow points (I have some 240gr) semi-jacketed solids, or lead? Semi-Jacketed solids with soft lead noses seem like the best choice, and I've practiced with the 300gr variety from a local company enough to know I can hit well with them.
My theory is that since overpenetration is not a problem and stopping power may be lacking compared to the trusty shotgun, better to stick with a solid to have a better chance of breaking bone and of an exit wound. I'd like to hear your opinions. I'm heading to the range to check the zero and practice one more time tomorrow, and I'd like to do it with the ammo I plan to use. Thanks!