I notice that 410 slugs are legal for deer where I hunt, and I am thinking it would be a great weapon for my young son to start deer hunting with. Does anyone here have experience with this weapon/ammunition for deer? What kind of range are we talking? What kind of knockdown power? Advice? Opinions? I've never owned a 410 so I have no idea.
Thanks in advance

A 410 for deer would not be a good gun for a beginer. Mainly cause you have to be dead on, and have to be close. As far as range, well under 50 yds. Knowdown power would not be alot. I'd say a 410 in the hands of an inexperenced shooter, would only lead to a wounded deer and disappointment. Get him a 20 gauge, he'll be alot better off.


Guns cause crime, like flies cause garbage.

I would start him off with a 16ga shotgun,or a 243 rifle. the 16 ga my wife had kicked a lot less than the 20ga. I have,(3 of them.)you can get #1 buckshot for them.only #2 for the 20.if buckshot is not legal in your area,it will do great with slugs.
the 16 will let him grow with it.the 243 is a great little ("no recoil&quot gun. I have shot one for the last 20 or so years.

I am not a hunter I am a whitetail population reduction specialest

remember keep your back to the sun, your knife sharp, and your powder dry.

I wouldn't use a .410 slug on a deer anytime.
I think the idea of a 243, or, even better, a 260 Rem in a full sized rifle with a "youth" sized stock would be a MUCH better choice. If you have to go with a shotgun, then a 20ga would be the minimum I would recommend.

"Progress, far from consisting in change, depends on retentiveness..those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." Santayana