I have taken a whitetail every year with my 1953 vintage 336 Marlin since 1996. You just can't improve on that gun. I am a little biased since it was a gift from my Grandpa. He actually handed me the gun and it is my most prised possession. I shoot the new Hornady LE ammo and it does a great job. Both of my kids will use the gun when they are old enough to hunt and I will be proud to hand it down to them!!!!