My only kill using the 8x57 was on a Northern California blacktail 4X4 some years back. The only hunting ammo I could find at the time for my 8mm Mauser was Federal 170 grain cartridges, which only carry 2250 at muzzle velocity. I hit the Blackmail buck with a broadside shot at about 80 yards. He took off running and I found him piled up about sixty yards away. Bullet went clean through both lungs and existed out the other side which helped with the blood trail. I can't say I was displeased with it's performance but it wasn't spectacular drop them in their track performance which I've had using a 308 and a 30-06 with the same shot. But not all deer behave or act the same when shot. I have my rifle now sighted in with PPU 196 grain bullets as I may also use it for deer and bear next hunt with it. Want to get my hands on some Sellier & Bellot ammunition as they load their stuff hotter. But with the current ammo shortage can't obtain any at the moment.
