If you limit the range to 40 yards and under, Buckshot is very lethal on deer sized game. I have taken approx. 20 blacktails in thick brush at close range and have had to make a second shot only once. I was using plated lead shot through a full choke until Remington's Hevi-shot came out. I now use 00 2 3/4" Hevi-shot through a modified choke. Last two years I have had near full penetration on deer at 25 yards with this load. In thick brush under 40 yards for deer, I think Buckshot is the best load going. S Z