15" 7.62x39 foe deer?

[One Shot]

Hello, I recently purchased a 15" 7.62x39 barrel for my Encore. I am new to handguns and this caliber but would like to hunt whitetails with it. What is the effective killing range and best factory ammo? Any other information regarding this caliber for hunting with would also be appreciated. Thanks

[spinafish]

one shot,I would believe your 7.62 x 39 should work to at least two hundred yards..of course, it all depends on the shooter.  Is at least capable of the same range as a 30.30.  As far as factory fodder..you have to have an expanding bullet..buy several different loads and see how well each shoot.

[PaulS]

Oneshot,
I will preface this note with a fact about me - I believe that if you are going to kill do it quickly and cleanly.

The 7,62 x 39 is less powerful in a Contender than a 30-30. Less powder space with same weight bullets. The difference isn't a lot and I will agree that with a properly placed shot it is capable of killing a deer at 200 yards. I will add that, unless the shot presented is right and the placement of the bullet is correct you will only wound the animal with little chance of recovery at that distance.
My advice is to hunt close and shoot well.

PaulS