I have seen 3 deer shot with a 30/30....looked like they were bodyslammed. I was very impressed. The guy who said they were no good for deer is an idiot...lol. I have even considered buying one for the briar patch I hunt in the first week of rifle season here in WV. I dont think i could put my .270 down long enough for that though. I keep buying guns but they never seem to make it out in the wood swith me because I just always feel naked without my cannon....lol.