Here in Ohio a pistol for deer hunting must be straight walled so, I purchased a 357 Max(14") and topped it with a Burris 1.5x4 for a back-up to my 45/70 .I loaded some rounds up on the max side to possibly use it some day on deer. It shoots extremely accurate with a max charge of H110 and Hornady 180gr XTP's. This year I loaned my 45/70 to my buddy to use while I went out of state and on the last day here after I got home I took out the MAX. 2 shots @ 100yds and 2 deer. I was impressed how well the XTP did! Dropped them both in their tracks. It so impressed me that it might be my 1st choice next year here in Ohio.