At ranges within the capability of the shotgun (in terms of pattern), I'm sold on buckshot. If brush is involved it can't be beat.
But it is not magic and poorly hit deer still do what they do, which is go forever. A single .30 cal shot does nowhere near the damage a single rifle round does of similar caliber -- but you know this. In fact, a single round from a .223 damages much than a single shotgun pellet of .30 cal.
But that's not point. I used it a lot out east and would again.
Now if one is in a shotgun only area, I personally would use a specialty rifled slug, not buckshot, unless hunting a nasty thicket with no options.
I've killed quite a few whitetails with a double barreled 12 gauge quail gun stoked with buckshot.
