Contender barrels

[Alski]

I was wondering about different Contender Deer barrels.  30 Herret,357 Herret,357 Max, 300 Whisper, 7mm TCU,6mm TCU? So, what do you think?  Who's gottem' with dies,  and how $$$$

[Hopalong7]

I have successfully used the first three you listed(both Herretts and the Max) for deer and think very highly of all 3.  I've had the .30H longer and used it more so I guess its my favorite(killed my first handgun deer with it in the fall of 1976.  I like the Max for woods walkin(still huntin') in close cover and the .30H more for Stand huntin' and more open areas.  If I'm in Bear country here in the east or hunting in Elk country out West I'd prefer the .35H.  All three have been overshadowed in recent years by newer offerings, but they are usually in 14" barrels.  I still think any of these three are hard to beat in 10" barrels.  The .35H has a little more recoil than the other two.  Also there is nothing wrong with the TCU's...I like both, but have never used either for deer...I know some do, but I'd just feel a little under gunned.  If you're thinking 14" barrel I'll throw in the 7-30 Waters and my recent favorite the 30-30AI.  You'll get plenty of opions on what to get, but they are not nearly as important as what you do with which ever you chose after you get it...shoot it a bunch and then shoot a bunch more...practice, practice, practice.  Good luck with your decision and GOOD SHOOTIN', Walt 

[HL]

The only caliber you listed that I am fairly familiar with is the 6TCU. I have a 6mm-223 which is basically the same. IMO, the 6-223 or 6TCU is adequate for deer when using 80gr. bullets, out to 200+ yds., with very good accuracy. I have taken several with mine, ranging from 40 yards to 225yds. Only one ran more than 40yds. Most went down where they stood.

Any of the calibers you listed will work well for deer.

Good shooting,

HL