.44MAG for deer...Options?

[VUPDblue]

So I think I'm gonna get out into the woods and try my hand at harvesting a deer this year. I haven't been hunting since, well a very long time. Anyway, I plan on taking the 8 3/8" Model 629 as my firearm of choice. Are there any hunters out there that could recommend a load? Last time I used this firearm for deer, I loaded up with 270gr Gold Dots. I still have some of them, but I'm open to other options.

 

[Lock n Load]

I hunt with a Ruger Redhawk 7.5" SS .44mag and I have gone the other direction..... down to 185 JHPs. They give me a little more range for the farm fields and put them down instantly with proper shot placement.

I also have some 240s loaded up that Ill use if its closer range and more heavily wooded.

It sure beats lugging a shottie around too.... my fellow hunters are envious of the lighter load and the end results too !!!

 

[x10]

240 Hornady XTP's have done the job for me before the Leverevolution 225's hit the market. I stoked the 240 xtp's with a full load of H110 and it was accurate in my Super Redhawk and OK in my Marlin Lever but then the marlin has never shot up to my expectations

 

[mwilson]

240 grain hornady xtp over 20.5 grains 2400 powder 50 yard 6 shot group.

 

[tyrajam]

I load up 240gr xtp's over a full load of lil'gun and get awesome accuracy. I've only shot one buck with it but I got complete penetration at about 80 yards.