The only gun Ive used Nosler Ballistic tips for deer in is my 300 Win mag,165 gr,and after using it for ten years and taking a mature buck every year except this year and several does, (nine mature bucks) and two large alaskan black bear, all have been "bang-flops", except for one of the bears, and he went about 50 yards. Every time I pull the trigger they look like they have been hit by a truck, and they are completely jelly on the inside, I usually get an exit, but about 20% dont exit, and it seems like the non-exit shots inflict the most damage, they are usually closer range shots. I love them, but I dont know If I would use them for deer sized game in anything smaller than a .270 cal.. Just my opinion.