[kabar]

You learn something new every day. Deer hunting in upstate NY was done primarily with a 30.06, but that was over 40 years ago for me. I guess you have to careful eating the venison so you don't chomp down on any buckshot.

[lugsoul]

I don't have any first-hand knowledge of NY, but I understand that rifles are only allowed in the Adirondack, and that everywhere else is shotguns.

Your point about the shot is dead on. I have actually seen folks pull out a pellet and set it to the side of their plate.

The biggest problem with shot is stopping power. Unless you enjoy tracking, slugs are the way to go.