A TWRA officer I know killed hundreds of whitetail with the Federal Premium 85-gr. BTHP load in the line of duty. I've shot exactly one buck with that load (got too many other rifles) at about 90 yards through the ribs. He staggered two steps and died. Caliber Size entry and exit, lungs looked like a grenade had gone off in chest cavity.

The slower velocity handload you suggest may slow fragmentation...


�When in doubt, I whip it out.� Uncle Ted
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