What to NOT Hunt a Deer With

Published on December 10, 2025
Duration: 2:04

This video from GUNBROS emphasizes ethical deer hunting by detailing firearms and calibers to avoid. The host, demonstrating high authority, explains that insufficient 'horsepower' (energy) and poor accuracy are the primary concerns. He specifically advises against using small rimfire cartridges like the .22, pistol caliber carbines (PCCs), and birdshot in shotguns, while recommending proper rifle cartridges for an ethical harvest.

Quick Summary

Ethical deer hunting hinges on two factors: sufficient projectile energy ('horsepower') and firearm accuracy. Avoid small rimfire rounds like .22, pistol caliber carbines (PCCs), and birdshot in shotguns. Opt for appropriate rifle cartridges and firearms capable of precise, humane shots.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Core Hunting Considerations
  2. 00:28Why Small Rimfire (.22) is Unsuitable
  3. 00:43Pistol Caliber Carbines (PCCs) for Deer?
  4. 01:07Shotguns: Slugs vs. Birdshot for Deer
  5. 01:20Short Barrels & Accuracy Issues (.45-70 Derringer)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main factors to consider when choosing a firearm for ethical deer hunting?

The primary factors are the firearm's 'horsepower,' meaning the energy delivered by the projectile, and its accuracy. An ethical deer hunt requires a cartridge powerful enough to humanely dispatch the animal and a firearm capable of precise shot placement.

Why are pistol caliber carbines (PCCs) not recommended for deer hunting?

PCCs, often chambered in pistol rounds like 9mm, are generally considered ballistically underwhelming for deer. While they can be accurate, they typically lack the necessary energy and velocity for an ethical, quick kill compared to standard rifle cartridges.

Is it ever acceptable to use a shotgun for deer hunting?

Yes, shotguns are acceptable for deer hunting, but only when firing slugs. Using birdshot, which is designed for small game birds, is highly unethical and ineffective for deer due to insufficient energy transfer and pattern spread.

Can a powerful caliber like .45-70 be used for deer hunting if the firearm has a short barrel?

No, a very short barrel, even on a powerful caliber like the .45-70 (as seen in a Derringer example), significantly compromises accuracy and velocity. This results in an unethical shot potential, making it unsuitable for deer hunting despite the caliber's inherent power.

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