Here in Illinois our options are limited ... shotgun/slug, muzzle loader, or wheel gun. I have all three (Mossberg 500 slug gun, CVA Optima, and two Rugers ... 45LC and 480). It was a challenge finding the right sabot for the Mossberg and found the Hornady SST a perfect match.
I choose which weapon to take based on hunting conditions. In the climbing stand with ample visibility and clearance I choose the CVA as I intend to make that first shot count. I do have one of the Rugers close in case a shooter ambles by the tree I'm in. If I am out and about I prefer having a long-range follow-up shot available so I carry the Mossberg.
I've taken deer with all three under those conditions and haven't let one get away yet. Illinois is a far cry from the deer hunting conditions I grew up with in NE Oregon. Dad shot a scoped M70 in 30-06 and gave me the M94 in 32WS with iron sights. I leaned to get sneaky early on.
