Best 30-30 load for deer?

It's been about twenty years since I was last out deer hunting, and I find myself somewhat out of touch. This year I inherited my grandfather's old 1940s vintage Marlin 36 (he hunted rarely, and it's in like-new condition), and figured I might take it out this season. I live in the northeast, and will be hunting White Tail Deer in moderatly dense foliage, at what I expect will be 50-100yard ranges. I'm guessing that the 150 grain bullet will be adequate, but would appreciate any recommendations as to brand, bullet type, etc. Thanks.

Joe, welcome back to the deer woods. Not much has changed and a 30/30 will still turn any whitetail you'll ever meet into venison quite nicely if you do your part. It is probably no such thing as a 150 or 170 grain factory load that is a poor choice for deer. Pick whatever weight and brand shoots best in your 'new' rifle. Good hunting! Michael

The Federal Premium load with the 170gr. Nosler Partition bullet is truly excellent. It expands well and penetrates deeply. It is the best overall load for the .30-30.

The 150 grain or the 170 grain should work fine. I like Remington Core-Locts for deer, but there are strong advocates for Winchester Power Points Federal ammo and others. Stick with any of the major brands in those weights and you should be fine.

Try a 170 grain bullet with 31 gr. of 3031.

I have been using Remington 150 gr. cor-lok factory loads in my Marlin for the past 30 yrs and they have never failed me. Hopefully they will work for my son in a few years as well as they have for me. Next year will be his first year with a bow. It will be 3 years before he can hunt with a rifle here in NY.

Hunting Continue the tradition and get a child involved.

Michael V.P. Suffolk Archers Long Island, NY

A 30-30 is great for deer hunting. I would suggest either the 150gr. or 170gr. both are execellent and all thats needed for deer. The choice is basically which both your gun and you perfer.