Which bullet construction is best for a clean kill on deer?

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Bullet Construction When it comes to bullet construction, the key is to find a balance between weight, diameter, and material. A bullet with too much weight may not travel as far, while one that’s too light may not have enough stopping power. A bullet with a diameter of 0.308 inches (7.8 mm) is a good starting point for whitetail hunting, as it provides a good balance between expansion and penetration.
## Ballistic Coefficient The ballistic coefficient of a bullet is critical for long-range shooting. A higher ballistic coefficient means the bullet will lose velocity more slowly, resulting in a flatter trajectory and deeper penetration. For whitetail hunting, a bullet with a ballistic coefficient of 0.5 or higher is recommended.
## Material The material used to construct the bullet is also important. Copper-jacketed bullets are a good choice for whitetail hunting, as they provide a good balance between expansion and penetration. Lead-core bullets are also effective, but may not expand as much as copper-jacketed bullets.
## Tip Shape and Size The tip shape and size of the bullet can also affect its performance. A pointed bullet is generally more aerodynamic than a flat-pointed bullet, resulting in a longer effective range. A bullet with a small tip, such as a 100-grain or 110-grain bullet, may be more effective for close-range shooting, while a bullet with a larger tip, such as a 150-grain or 160-grain bullet, may be more effective for longer ranges.
## Expansion The expansion of the bullet is critical for a clean kill. A bullet that expands too little may not penetrate deep enough, while one that expands too much may over-penetrate and cause unnecessary damage. A bullet with an expansion ratio of 1.5 to 2.0 is generally considered optimal for whitetail hunting.