This year I plan to shoot my deer(s) with my S&W model 25-2. I have assembled the loads using Starline .45 Auto Rim brass and a Mihec 454423 clone boolit, cast of 50/50 for a weight of 245 gr.
The load itself is right out of the Lyman 3rd edition Cast Bullet Manual and shows a pressure of 13,000-14,000. Marginal? Not from the perspective of my "poor mans ballistic gel" tests so far, It penetrates through 8+ one gallon water jugs and blows the first couple up nicely.
My self imposed max range with a handgun is 25-30 yards and groups are around 2-3" at that range.
Health permitting, I'll get to find out soon, whether or not the .45 AR is marginal on deer.
Semper Fi, Treetop