I have a modified SKS with a scope mounted. I let a friend of mine hunt with it. I gave him some ballistic tipped bullets in 7.62 x 39 and He killed a doe with it. On inspection I could not find an exit wound. I eventually found one...the same diameter as the entrance. The penetration was unbeleivable, even for a not so powerful round such as 7.62x39. This doe(about 110lbs or so)was about 40yds away or so. She maybe got 50 more yards and dropped. I think ballistic tips are a preference thing. They maximize penetration, but lower knockdown power in my experience.