I finally saved up enough lunch money to buy a new Henry "big-boy" 44 mag. This is a replica of the golden boy's used back in the late 1800's. Although I've got way to many deer rifles already, I just can't help myself when it comes to lever actions, they just seem to have a better "feel" and a simple but elegant design.

I was able to shoot the rifle the same day of purchase and was really surprised how little kick there was, especially with a brass butt plate. I guess I'm just used to shooting the lever action 30/30's and 35's that seem to kick like a mule.

Although I know a lot of guy's are using the 44mag pistols for hunting, I'm was curious if anyone has used this rifles for hunting whitetails? if so, what grain bullet has the best overall performance?

Any comments or suggestions?

I've shot several deer with my old Ruger carbine useing 240 grain Winchester factory ammo. Seems to work pretty good to me, but i never shot over 100 yards either.

My brother is hunting with one of the new Ruger carbines in 44 mag., and he likes it a lot.

Drilling Man

I use a .44 Mag. Ruger Carbine. Shot only one deer with it due not having a scope and not taking a lot of shots. Im getting a scope put on it though.