I shot at a deer in a field with my 54 cal T/C muzzleloader. I estimated the range to be just over 100yds, soI held on the top of the shoulder. The deer dropped, then thrashed, then got up and ran, leaving the field on a well-used trail about 200-250 yds away.

I knew I hit high, and paced the range. It was about 75 yds. Went to the trail the deer used and began looking for sign. Right there on the ground I found my 54 cal maxiball, a little deformed but not much, with rifling marks, and tallow on it. When I looked back to where I shot from, the spot where the deer dropped was exactly in line.

All I can figure is the bullet went through the deer above the spine, then hit the grass and came to a stop in the trail. I know that kind of thing happens all the time, but it's unusual to actually find the bullet.