I think I would have to go with my trusty 30-30. I have never had a deer go more than 10 yards with it. Where I hunt a 30-30 is the better gun. But there was a time this year I wish I would have had a 7mm or something that would reach out and grab this huge deer I saw at about 400 yards..... But in my opinion I think the 30-30 is better..