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PlatinumCore16 · May 11, 2017, 03:35 PM

I do not have any experience with killing deer with either the 30-30 or the x39mm. However I would submit that I think that the shape of the bullet, not just JHP vs. FMJ matters as well. The 30-30 was a lever rifle that used a non-pointed bullet as opposed to the x39mm which would've been firing a soft point bullet or a hollow point (which actually doesn't act like a scoop if you look at the aerodynamics) which would be closer to a spitzer shape. Now does that make a lot of difference, idk I'd actually have to take it to paper, but I would venture a guess that the 30-30 and the x39mm are closer than a lot of people here are guessing.

Granted this directly affects velocity, so looking on paper (7.62 source 30-30 source), the 30-30 has over 800ft-lbs (energy source) out past 200yds whilst the 7.62 has that just under 200yds. However the flat nosed bullet vs. the less aerodynamic bullet *could* result in better accuracy from the more aerodynamic bullet.

I guess what I'm saying is that there's more to it than just the energy, the rifle, or the shooter. But I think you've got enough information to say that both the 30-30 and 7.62x39mm are humane to kill a deer out to at least 150yds. Beyond that, well it would appear that YMMV.

May 11, 2017, 03:35 PM	#44
PlatinumCore16 Senior Member Join Date: February 23, 2017 Location: Colorado Posts: 424	I do not have any experience with killing deer with either the 30-30 or the x39mm. However I would submit that I think that the shape of the bullet, not just JHP vs. FMJ matters as well. The 30-30 was a lever rifle that used a non-pointed bullet as opposed to the x39mm which would've been firing a soft point bullet or a hollow point (which actually doesn't act like a scoop if you look at the aerodynamics) which would be closer to a spitzer shape. Now does that make a lot of difference, idk I'd actually have to take it to paper, but I would venture a guess that the 30-30 and the x39mm are closer than a lot of people here are guessing. Granted this directly affects velocity, so looking on paper (7.62 source 30-30 source), the 30-30 has over 800ft-lbs (energy source) out past 200yds whilst the 7.62 has that just under 200yds. However the flat nosed bullet vs. the less aerodynamic bullet could result in better accuracy from the more aerodynamic bullet. I guess what I'm saying is that there's more to it than just the energy, the rifle, or the shooter. But I think you've got enough information to say that both the 30-30 and 7.62x39mm are humane to kill a deer out to at least 150yds. Beyond that, well it would appear that YMMV.