The last few years all of my hunting has been done with hand loads. I have yet to shoot a deer with one that hasn’t died very quickly but I do have a favorite. The 150gr Barnes TTSX out of my 308 is definitely my pick. The TTSX is “overkill” for deer in that it’s a tougher construction and costs more than a normal soft point. But every deer I’ve shot with it has dropped in its tracks, one was running towards me and the shot went through the entire body. It’s tough enough to ensure exit and good blood trail (if needed) but I haven’t noticed excessive meat damage.
My favorite factory load is Federal Blue Box, it’s nothing special but it’s the only factory ammo that seems to shoot well in all my guns.
