Just because of the animal you're dealing with I would weigh it out on scales.Now granted a dipper would get you close to where you want to be, but the true weight is a very important thing. Smokeless powdersin just small amounts produce differentpressures and can change from accurate to dangerous. Maybe that is why I have never made that final step to a smokeless. Although I have to admit the Savage ML10-II is a beautiful and from all I have read, a very accurate efficient hunting weapon.