Deer gun, within limits

[reno316]

So, due to circumstances beyond my control, I'll be moving to Indiana this fall, and will need to do my deer hunting there (move date is Aug 31... y'all feel free to come help load the uHaul... or as we say in Georgia, "Y'all Haul".)

Indiana has regulations on what rounds you can use. Sadly, my tack-driving Remington 700 in 30.06 is NOT permitted.

List of permitted rounds here: http://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/files...rhuntguide.pdf

So, I'm looking for suggestions that fit those rules, with a couple caveats:

1. I am no Simo Hayha. My effective range is just on the south side of 150 yards. Much beyond that, I'm not very accurate, and I DESPISE the idea of a "non-clean" kill. If I can't drop the deer FAST with one shot, I don't take the shot. That's just me.

2. I am not, sadly, possessed of an exorbitant amount of disposable income. If I tell the wife I need to spend $400 or so on a new rifle, she'll tolerate it. If I try to spend $800 on a new rifle, I can say goodbye to my man parts.

3. I don't plan to use this rifle for much more than taking a deer or two. MAYBE take it on a hog hunt in TX this November, but little else.

Input welcome, and as always I am indebted to y'all.

Regards,

[bogie]

I'm from Ohio where deer hunting is much the same as Indiana. Except there are way more deer in Indiana. I've hunted in both states many times. IMO for $400 go to buy yourself a used 870 (or your manufacturer preference) with a GOOD RIFLED slug barrel. I've never taken a shot in Ohio over about 30-40 yards so you really don't need a rifle.

Option 2, In case you already have a revolver or ever plan on purchasing one, buy yourself a lever action that uses the same caliber ammo. I'm sure you can pick up a decent used lever gun for about $400 by Marlin for example. Guns tend to be cheaper back east. You should get at least a .357 or preferably .44 mag for deer.

If you get a shotgun, I suggest getting one of the cheaper red dot reflex sights for it. Whatever is within your budget.

Good luck and happy white tailing!

[spqrzilla]

I'd suggest a .45 Colt lever gun myself. That would be a fun gun to own anyway.

[gnihcraes]

With so many trees, I doubt you'll be shooting much past 50-75 yards. Switch to archery and enjoy the hunt at less than 20 yards.

[Tinelement]

Gotta go with a Ruger M77 243.

Only cause I've had one since I was 11.

I've killed more deer with that thing than obummer has killed dreams.

[Monky]

Gotta go with a Ruger M77 243.

Only cause I've had one since I was 11.

I've killed more deer with that thing than obummer has killed dreams.

I call BS or there would be no deer.

[Inconel710]

Sounds like a pistol caliber lever gun is the way to go. I don't understand their logic but, their state, their rules.

[reno316]

I appreciate all the input. I've given thought to the rifled barrel shotgun. Any ideas on cost?

And I would note, with no small measure of consternation, that not a single one of y'all offered to help come load the uHaul. And here I thought we were pals and all....

Hrrmmmpfffh.

[bigun1962]

The rifled shotgun is way more gun than you need. It is outstanding as far as you will be shooting. If I were you I would find one here and haul to Indiana. The are way more expensive out there than here.

[bigun1962]

Go to depot and get help with the uhaul. Where are you moving to in Indiana?