Quick Answer
For hunting whitetail deer with a single-shot rifle, the best grains of ammo are 100-150 grain for smaller calibers like .243 Winchester or 7mm-08 Remington, and 150-180 grain for larger calibers like .30-06 Springfield or .308 Winchester.
Choosing the Right Bullet Type
When selecting ammunition for whitetail deer hunting, it’s essential to consider the bullet type. For hunting at close to medium ranges (less than 300 yards), a soft-point or hollow-point bullet is ideal. These bullets expand upon impact, causing maximum damage to the deer. Look for bullets with a weight retention of at least 80% to ensure they maintain their mass and penetration. A good example of a soft-point bullet is the Barnes TSX 100-grain bullet in .243 Winchester.
Ballistic Performance Considerations
When choosing the right grain of ammo, consider the ballistic performance. A bullet with a higher BC (ballistic coefficient) will maintain its velocity and trajectory over longer ranges. For hunting at longer ranges (300-400 yards), a bullet with a higher BC, such as the 150-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip, is a good choice. This bullet maintains its velocity and trajectory, making it ideal for longer shots.
Caliber Considerations
When selecting a caliber for hunting whitetail deer, consider the available grain options. Smaller calibers like .243 Winchester and 7mm-08 Remington have a narrower selection of grain options, typically ranging from 80-100 grains. Larger calibers like .30-06 Springfield and .308 Winchester have a wider selection of grain options, typically ranging from 150-180 grains. For example, the .30-06 Springfield has a wide range of 150-180 grain options, including the 150-grain Remington Core-Lokt and the 180-grain Federal Premium.
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