What first deer gun?
#12
Join Date: Oct 2003
Posts: 259
RE: What first deer gun?
I second the .270 with a good recoil pad you can't go wrong. I don't have a re-coil pad just a plastic butt plate.
130's for deer
150's for big game
A flat shooter with 130's, my .270 with custom loads is 3" high at 100 and 12" low at 300.
Ammo is available everywhere in 130's and 150's
130's for deer
150's for big game
A flat shooter with 130's, my .270 with custom loads is 3" high at 100 and 12" low at 300.
Ammo is available everywhere in 130's and 150's
#14
Fork Horn
Join Date: Nov 2003
Posts: 138
RE: What first deer gun?
If you can take a little recoil then go w/ the .270. I love my .257 roberts, but they are harder to find and you won't be able to stop at Wal-Mart/K-mart or some other big store and readily get ammo. You could look for a used 7mm mag or 30.06 with a ported barrel or muzzel brake and never buy another gun (but why do that, lol).
#15
RE: What first deer gun?
270 win. for sure. I started using a .270 win when I was 11 years old and it has been my preference ever since. I have used it on varmints all the way up to big bucks. I haven't had ac hance to go after an elk yet, but when I do I will just swich up to a 150grain bullet. On deer I would recommend Federal Premium 130grain nosler partitions. I just got into handloading so I have quit buying bullets, but the federal premiums have near handload performance. The most important thing to remember in any hunting situation is to put safety first. It is worth it to pass up a 20point buck to avoid the risk of a hunting accident. Good Luck.
#17
Fork Horn
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: New Mexico
Posts: 395
RE: What first deer gun?
Hello neighbor! Just wondering what part of NM you live in. I live just outside of Las Cruces NM. If it were me I would go with the 270 cal. You can hunt just almost any thing you want . Although it is a little light for Elk. But It has been known to drop them in their track a time or two. Hope it helps and be safe . Leroy.
#19
Typical Buck
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location:
Posts: 549
RE: What first deer gun?
I think the 270,30-06,30-30,308,243, and non magnums calibers would suit you fine. The main key is practice practice practice. And not all hunting situations will be off the perfect rest. Try leaning up against a tree or fence post while practicing also. Forget shooting long range till you have developed a knowledge of your cartridge and distances. You want your first animal you take to be a clean kill. Its ethical and totally a hunters responisiblity to learn and shoot his rifle. Pick your spot on the animal and aim there don't shoot at the whole animal. Most important wait for the best opportunity shots such as broadside and quartering away. Good luck
#20
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: Northern MN
Posts: 270
RE: What first deer gun?
I know a 12yr old that is shooting a 30-06 and took two deer in Minnesota this last year. I dont think the recoil will be an issue if you have good instruction. I personally would start you off with a USED Quality .270. Have the stock fit to you by a gunsmith. Have a Sims Vibration Labs Recoil reducer put on it. It recoil reduction is great. You did not mention bigger game and the .270 is capable out to 400 yards on deer sized game WITH PRACTICE. I would not advise you to take any shots at that distance w/o alot of practice.
My choice for you would be a Savage 270 wood stock with 3-9 scope, JMHO
My choice for you would be a Savage 270 wood stock with 3-9 scope, JMHO