RE: To stop a deer in its tracks
I hunt with a rifle, but of the 7 or 8 deer i've shot only 2 have dropped in their tracks, a chest shot on a deer that was facing me (through the sternum) and a shot through both shoulders, but that one ruined more meat than i would have liked. I've hit a deer w/ my 30.06 in the heart and she still ran 30 or 40 yards, i dont think any shot besides the spine is guaranteed to drop a deer, they are tough critters. I prefer to aim low and behind the shoulder, good chance at lungs and/or heart and the low entry and exit wounds provide a good blood trail. hope this helps.