I don' t think there is a better round for deer hunting in the woods. I bought my marlin 1895ss for public land hunting in northern michigan. I wanted a quick kill and huge blood trail. I also didn' t want alot of bloodshot meat. I' m sure not dissapointed!!! I also have a 1894 in .44 but I have not had a chance to use it yet. In the .45-70 you have a cartridge that is mild and easy to shoot (300 gr factory loads) and also a thundering nightmare for any animal in north america (heavy handloads and Garrett' s stuff). Buy one you will love it!!