Topic:

DEER ROUNDS

Discussion:
 

Glen Bolen writes:

I have been planning of getting a 7-30 waters barrel but I think that my finances (and wife) would like it if I don't. So, my question is, should I try loading my .45 rounds hotter and using them for deer next year? Also, how accurate is this barrel?

The 7-30 is an excellent choice for deer. I use it myself. As to the 45 I suppose if you load it at the upper end it resembles a 44 mag and I have taken 5 deer with a 44 at ranges out to 50 yds. All one shot kills and complete penetration (out the other side).
From Jerry

> >should I try loading my .45 rounds hotter and using them for deer next year?

I have one of these barrels and while I've never hunted deer with it I feel it would do the job if you limit your shots to 50 yards or so. The ..45 isn't all that powerful and mine is not a tack driver.

Do some target work to see how good yours shoots before going hunting. You need to sight it in anyway and besides it's fun.

From ldb@infowest.com

Having taken several large western Mule deer with a 7.5" 44 Super Blackhawk in as many years, I can attest this IS way more than enough gun for deer. I can see no reason why the 45 Colt can't do almost as well, if you can place your shots well and shoot only within the range you are proficient at with the pistol. However, the factory 45/410 barrel that you are talking about, in my humble opinion, is barely acceptable, at least in the accuracy department. My first T/C came outfitted with this 10" barrel, and after trying several 45 factory loads in it, I quickly delegated it to .410 use only (my original reason for buying it in the first place). At the time T/C came out with this barrel, its my guess the 45 capability was only to make it possible for them to offer a pistol length shotgun barrel that was legal. I guess it could work (even with its questionable fold-up rear sight), if the ranges are close enough that you are sure you can make a clean kill, and in the heat of the moment. With all of my experience and confidence in handgun hunting, I still would pass, as I have to much respect for wild game to trust a clean kill to this barrel. Hope this helps, even if it is only my opinion.

From Guido Lepore glepore@direct.ca

I tried .45 in mine (after a successful grouse season with .410) and the accuracy was on par with a slingshot. Try a valentine and some roses, and then pose the new barrel question.
   
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