It'll sure do a number on a person at 50 yards. I agree, it may not the best choice for deer, but at close ranges and a well placed shot, it WILL kill a deer no problem. I think the OP just wanted some opinions of the rounds effectiveness at close ranges. I had an IJ .30 carbine back in the 80's. It ws a fun plinking rifle, but wasn't too accurate much past 50-75 yards anyways. It was original designed as a paratroopers weapon during WW2 I believe. Splitting hairs is just going to confuse the merits of the original question. Seems everything turns into a huge debate anymore. JMO