[Dusty Road]

Well, just to shake things up. I wouldn't consider the 30-30 or the 7.62X39 for deer hunting. Yes i know they're both capable of killing a deer, but so is a 22 rim-fire. If it doesn’t produce at least 2,000 ft-lbs at 100 yards, it won't make my list.

[SJackson]

Well, just to shake things up. I wouldn't consider the 30-30 or the 7.62X39 for deer hunting. Yes i know they're both capable of killing a deer, but so is a 22 rim-fire. If it doesn’t produce at least 2,000 ft-lbs at 100 yards, it won't make my list.

Personal choice, I frequently use lever actions in both 30/30 and .44 mag which doesn't look much different from the .30 carbine on the charts though with double the bullet weight, and have never had a problem. Of course mostly from what are usually bowstands, anticipated shots usually well under 100 yards. I've known people who use the 7.62X39, they occasionally get stopped by wardens checking for softpoint ammo. An annoyance, particularly when coupled with fewer off the shelf choices. And if the Ranch Rifle is anything like my Mini 14 in the accuracy department, it'll take some work.