[rpmranch]

I have an opportunity to hunt a freinds creek bottom that is flush with deer, it is also heavily wooded. All of the deer stands are in or around the creek bottom The only gun I have that would fill the ticket is my old winchester 30-30 that I have not fired in years, (unless I break out the S&W 44 Mag).

I have been looking at some 150 grain hollow points. Most of the shots will not be more than 40-50 yards and that is a stretch. Any thoughts on something better?

[spittinfire]

At that short of distance just about any 30-30 load will work, 150gr or 170gr would be fine. I would go to the local shop and pic up a couple boxes of core locks or similar and make sure your rifle likes them before heading out. You can get a box of Federal JSPs for around $10 at walmart. You won't see any benefit in amore expensive bullet at that close range.

[c3shooter]

At that range. Louisville Slugger. Take the ball bat, leave the rifle at home!

Seriously, as the man just said, any decent 30-30 round. I am personally partial to the 170 gr Silvertip in 30-30. At 40 yards, most 30-30s will be a through and through unless you hit major bone. You want 2 holes- 1 to let air in, 1 to let blood out. DO take time to check your zero for close shots- have seen folks miss completely at close range- with their rifle zeroed for 200, shooting over the critter at 40 yards.

[rpmranch]

Thanks everyone, I was planning on sighting it in for 50 yds.