If a 7-30 waters is a good round for deer, does it meet the requirements for deer in Indiana? I see 35 rem in different stores but do not recall seeing the 7-30 waters. What would be the real gain over the 35 rem? I would assume greater range with a flatter trajectory. Would the knockdown power be comparable to the 35 rem? The longer shot I have taken a deer with is 75 yards and the areas I hunt (unless along a field), my shots should be under 100 yards. Thanks for the responses this far! Lots of good info and differing opinions.....I like it!
The 35 rem in a 14 inch contender is fine for deer. I can hit a milk jug at 160 yards with most of my ammo and hardly ever get to shoot at deer that far out. That is something most people can't do with a 44 mag contender.
I have found that the 150 grain bullets are the best at carrying the full range of the cartridge with the least drop at distance. The 180 SSP (single shot pistol bullet ) works well for being a higher weight, the 200 grainers would work well on PIGS or bear a little closer. The recoil is not brutal but it is not for someone who has not seasoned themselves up to muzzle blast and noise. It can cause flinching. The fireball at dusk and dawn is substantial.
I have found the 7-30 waters. It is a 30-30 necked down to 7mm. It is now my preference in the contender for deer. Better wider selection of bullets, a little higher velocity and very good accuracy.