I prefer the 180 grain bullets. I think they are a nice compromise between velocity and weight in the Max. If you push pistol bullets too fast, they will blow up on contact. I loaded up some 125 grain bullets for varmints, but I can only push them about 2300 fps or the accuracy goes out the window. Very low pressure, but shoot well. Beyond 2300 fps and the ol' Max starts spraying them. I suspect that they are getting distorted hitting the lands. Many prefer bullets designed for the 35 Remington to make sure they hold together well when they make contact with a deer sized target. Of course if you are not shooting deer at close range (beyond 75 yards or so), the velocity will drop off enough to make pistol bullets very effective. Good Luck and Good Shooting