Ammo is the least expensive aspect of your hunt. So spending 25 on a box instead of 15 is not that big of a deal. all up to you.

Shoot your gun with a few different brands and see what shoots best. My 270 shoots Winchester Ballistics tips the best. Federal premiums are a close second. both fine for hunting.

My 308 shoots every kind of ammo the same at 100 yards..which amazes me.depends on your gun

the hornady light magnums is a hot load and gives you 200 more feet per second and more energy. if you are taking shots at running deer then this should be considered. We track and still huntalot in the Northeast in snow so running shots are common. faster bullet gives you an edge