My kids started shooting deer with a 30-30 in 1996. Soon after that I happened upon a box of Federal Premium ammo loaded with a 170 grain Nosler Partition. I started loading those over IMR 4895 and it's been the go-to hunting load ever since. They kill deer just as well as every other bullet available for the round, but they cost a lot more! Hmmm...
In a single shot I also use a 150 grain Nosler Ballistic Tip. 28 grains of 4895 under the BT is super accurate in my rifle and it's a real mild load even for a 30-30. It's fun to shoot and kids love it!
I never touched one until my son started shooting. Now I'm back to hunting in thick places and getting close to the deer and it's one of my favorite cartridges. Go figure.
