I'm new to pistols. My wife got me a S&W 44mag 6 1/2 barrel. What is the best ammo to use for deer hunting??? I had boughtwhat Wallyworld sold but don't know if it's what I need. Any help would be appreciated.

Any brand of ammunition loaded with standard 240gr semi jacketed flatnose soft points will effectively down a deer with proper shot placement.

There are some brands that offer heavier bullets like Hornady 300gr XTP's, and heavy 300gr cast lead bullets are always a good choice for game, but good old 240gr loads have killed deer beyond number.

What ever you choose, accuracy from your gun should be a big part of your decission as shot placement is very important.

early

Whatever your choice, stay away from the hollow point variety that is designed for personal protection. They are not designed to penetrate as deeply. Most of those rounds are designed to dump energy in the assailant without over penetration. In deer hunting you need an exit wound so you can have a blood trail to follow.