using a gut hook helps me alot but i think it matters how you were taught and level of practice. i also start from breast cavity on a deer and work downward. if you start between the legs i feel its like playing roulette with the intestines and stomach if you get it wrong or go too deep.brand wise i like anything- buck. i try stay away from folding models just because there harder to cleanbut i do use a buck lite from time to time . ive owned gerber and uncle henry knoves from k-mart and they never stayed sharp and rusted easy so im staying with buck.