This is the first time I've used Berger VLD bullets on anything larger than a coyote. I used the 115 grain VLD at 3200 fps from a .25-06 rifle, with a 6x Leupold scope. The bullets worked out great. I've only hunted with this rifle for four years - and it's rapidly become my favorite hunting rifle. Relatively light, no recoil and it's been sudden death on mule deer, rockchucks and coyotes. Third mule deer buck in four seasons. I'm satisfied!
Had to take two shots this time; the initial shot at 230 yards was a spine shot - the buck was below me and facing away with his back towards me. It was the only shot I had. Bullet and a chunk of spine were both destroyed. Fortunately didn't lose much backstrap. That first shot dropped him instantly, then he fell down the mountain into a nasty ravine.
Second shot was into the chest from about 100 yards and resulted in a very quick kill. Good initial penetration, then simply destroyed the heart and lungs as it expanded violently. The Berger performed exactly as I'd read that it would.
This was in Washington's Cascade Mountains a couple of days ago on public land, towards the end of the nine-day general season. We estimated the buck at 250 pounds or so, the 4x4 rack measures a tad over 26" wide. He's a good buck for the area, and I feel very fortunate to have taken him.
Regards, Guy
Found deer. Shot same! 
