mini 30 for deer hunting

Depends on the part of the US you are hunting...I would use a Mini 30 in East Texas, or places where the brush negates long shots, and the deer aren't too huge...Basically, if you would use a 30-30, then the Mini 30 should be fine...

Also, the Mini 30 would make for a good hog gun...IMHO...

Short range, it will do just fine. Unfortunately, the Mini 30 isn't typically very accurate. Mine is only good for 4-6" at 100 yds and that's on a good day.

I use mine for my doe tags if I need the meat. 2 shots = 2 does drt at about 75 yds.
I have 'tweaked' mine some with careful hand fitting and now get 2" groups off a rest at 100 yds with a 4.5X scope useing good handloads on a good day for me.
also I have worked up a good load useing the Speer 150gr sp slug that I'm sure would do well on a large deer or hog with any sort of decent shot. I just haven't used it yet as I have other rifles/pistols I use. basically a semi-auto 30-30 I suppose it could be said.

I owned a Mini 30. Never really cared for. Would be fine for some little Eastern deer at close range but no good out West. Think I'd opt for a good old Marlin 30-30 for Eastern deer.

Any shortcomings will be the fault of the individual rifle in this case not the cartridge.

See mine and others 7.62x39 kills mentioned in the first sig link

I think the ranch rifle in 6.8spc would make a better deer rifle.

The Mini 30 is more than adequate for even large deer within it's effective range (under 200 yards). It is capable of good hunting accuracy and the 7.62x39 round is good deer medicine. I would recommend a good scope.

If the rifle is capable and the shooter is skilled enough to shoot a 4" group at 100yds, it will certainly do the job, as evidenced by krochus.


NCsmitty

I had a Mini 30, traded it because I wasn't happy with the accuracy. In hindsight, I was looking for MOA accuracy from a rifle designed to hit a target at appreciable distances. What more, I had several 20 round mags that worked well for it. I should have kept that rifle but I'll probably buy one again one day.

I use my Mini-30 to fill my antelope tag every year and have never had an issue. I will use it on deer when I am expecting shots of under 150yds.