Originally Posted By: BrentD
Nice buck!

I'd love to here about your loads for the .38s, esp the 38-40 and how it performed on game.


Brent, my load for deer with the 1889 Marlin in .38-40 was 18 grs. of 2400 with a 170 gr. gas check bullet. I'm not sure why, but the reaction from thee deer on impact was the most spectacular kill I've ever seen. I was 80 yds. from the buck, and he froze when he spotted me. I sat there waiting with my sights on his chest, hoping he'd turn. I finally decided if he turned, he might simply bolt and I'd miss a chance, so I took the slightly angled shot on his chest. When I shot I saw the buck come straight up on his hind legs and land on his back. Never kicked or made any movement after hitting the ground.
I've had deer I shot with a perfect behind the shoulder hit with my old .30-06 that took off running, and acted as if it was a bad hit. But no matter what I've killed, nothing reacted like that buck hit with the .38-40 did.