Minimum Fallow Deer Cartridge

Fallow buck - image BBC UK — Fallow buck – image BBC UK


Q: Some of my mates are convinced that cartridges such as the .223 and.22-250 are adequate for shooting fallow deer. I am equally convinced that when it comes to deer cartridges, the .243 Win. and 6mm Rem. are a more sensible minimum, while the.257 Roberts, and .25-06 are close to ideal. What's your opinion on the subject?Errol King

6mm cartridges in the .243 Winchester class shooting heavy bullets are considered a reasonable minimum fallow cartridge.


A: While I realise that new heavy .22 calibre bullets improve

the performance of various .22 centrefires on deer compared with the same cartridges loaded with bullets designed for shooting varmints, I regard any .22 calibre cartridge as being underpowered for deer. In a spotlight and under favourable conditions, they often kill deer cleanly enough, but conditions are not always favourable in the field. I agree with you on the subject - 6mm calibre is the minimum that should be used on fallow deer, and only with a stoutly structured bullet of 90-105 grains.

Nick Harvey

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The late Nick Harvey (1931-2024) was one of the world's most experienced and knowledgeable gun writers, a true legend of the business. He wrote about firearms and hunting for about 70 years, published many books and uncounted articles, and travelled the world to hunt and shoot. His reloading manuals are highly sought after, and his knowledge of the subject was unmatched. He was Sporting Shooter's Technical Editor for almost 50 years. His work lives on here as part of his legacy to us all.