7mmtcu

stevek

any thoughts on this one, close range deer hunting, 50/60 yards. sounds minimal, but some say , proper placement will do the job.

nononsense

stevek,

The T/CU line of cartridges was designed for accuracy and controllability in handgun silhouette competition. Here is a synopsis:

7mm TCU

Historical Notes:

The 7mm TCU is another of the series of cartridges developed by Wes Ugalde for Thompson Center and offered as a standard chambering in the single shot Contender pistol. All are based on the 223 Remington case necked up, this one to 7mm (.284"). The 7mm TCU dates back to 1980, or thereabouts, and has become quite popular for metallic silhouette pistol shooting. It is also known as the 7mm x 223.

General Comments:

The 7mm TCU has a reputation for exceptional accuracy and makes a good varmint cartridge in the T/C Contender pistol, particularly with the 14 inch barrel, which provides an extra couple of hundred fps over the 10 inch barrel. It is on the marginal side for deer or other medium game. The originators recommend that only commercial 223 Remington brass be used for forming cases. Don't use military brass. Cases are easy to make and can be formed in one operation once the dies are properly adjusted. Proper case length is 1.740 inches.


Source: Cartridges of the World


In my opinion, you would be better suited with this cartridge as opposed to the .300 Whisper. Loaded with an appropriately constructed bullet, with proper placement, you should be good beyond your 50-60 yard range and have a reasonable amount of energy remaining. Much more than the .300 Whisper will have.

You can also give a look at the 6.5 T/CU as a viable cartridge for close range deer hunting. Nosler makes a 125 gr. Partition that will deliver a respectable amount of energy at the distances you are suggesting and beyond with this cartridge.

Try the Accurate Arms reloading manual for some good load information.

Best.