My reasoning for the advice is because I have tracked I can't tell you how many over the years in the field for inexperienced hunters using 30-30 rifles who did not know how to track a wounded deer. When I found the deer for them it usually was a hit that would have killed the deer but another caliber would have left a much better blood trail. There is little that is more disheartening to a new hunter than to shoot a deer and not find the animal dead. I did not recommend a caliber to the op because it would have been one of my favorite calibers which is what most people do. I just think there are better calibers than the 30-30 for new hunters. there are so many superior calibers out there to choose from. That is my advice, he can take it or not, it is his choice if he doesn't it won't hurt my feelings.