From actual experiences: It can't be called a solid hit until you have the deer and have verified the hit by putting your hands on it.

Shot placement is the key.

The only deer I have ever lost was with my 30-30 but it was my fault I hit her a bit back and started tracking to soon and ended up jumping her to the next property.

I have killed several deer with the 30-30 and its a great round here is the proof.

30 yards two shots second was insurance dead in 10 seconds.


160 yards ran 50 yards.

Shot 105 yards went 15 yards.

100 yards DRT