It was a 25-20, here's a clip from the story

"Instinctively, Jim shouldered his .25/20 Winchester and carefully aimed at the giant's neck. The rack was
frozen in place as the deer, unaware of the hunter's presence listened to the sounds of the approaching
train. Posed against the blue sky of a clear, cold day, the majestic buck with his heavy, golden-brown rack
left an impression Jim would never forget. Finally, the hunter squeezed off the shot. Deer scattered at the
sound, does in one direction and the buck in the other. Jim fired until his magazine was empty as the
racing buck made for nearby cover."


What doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Except for bears. Bears kill you.