I have a buddy who hunts in the black timber, real thick shots--- are close--he uses 220 grain "core-lokt" bullets with good success. He says he likes the extra punch--- his shots are close 50 to 75 yards. I hunt at timberline & my shots are about 150 yards on average. I use a 180 grain "Core-lokt" with no problems at all. Make that 1st shot count-- hit em in the boiler room!!