The best lead free bullet for fallow deer
Which Fox Classic Hunter weight suits fallow, the legal minimums across the UK, and why fallow deserve more bullet than roe.
Last updated 28 July 2026
Fallow are the point at which bullet choice starts to matter properly. A mature buck can exceed 90kg, they are frequently shot in groups where a second shot may be needed quickly, and they are tough enough to keep going on a marginal hit. This is not a species to under-gun.
Recommended weights
- 6.5mm (.264) 123gr or 139gr — the 123 grain is the sensible default; the 139 grain if you take longer shots or want maximum penetration.
- .270 (.277) 130gr or 145gr — the 130 grain is the classic fallow load; the 145 grain for the biggest bucks.
- .30 (.308) 150gr or 165gr — the 150 grain covers it; the 165 grain is the heavy option.
- 6mm (.243) 100gr — workable with good placement, but the 6mm is at the lighter end for a big fallow buck.
The legal minimums
| Jurisdiction | Minimum requirement |
|---|---|
| England and Wales | Rifle of at least .240 inches calibre and muzzle energy of at least 2,305 J (1,700 ft-lb), firing an expanding bullet |
| Scotland | Bullet of at least 80 grains (5.3g), muzzle energy at least 1,750 ft-lb, muzzle velocity at least 2,450 ft/s |
Summary only. Confirm against the primary sources listed at the foot of this page.
The Scottish minimum bullet weight for red, sika and fallow was reduced from 100 grains to 80 grains on 3 November 2023, specifically to widen the choice of non-lead ammunition available in common calibres. That change is one of the more directly helpful pieces of policy for anyone making the lead free transition in Scotland.
Terminal performance on fallow
Fallow have substantial shoulder bone and a good depth of chest. This is where the weight retention of a monolithic pays: a bullet that stays intact drives through heavy bone and keeps going, where a fragmenting lead-core bullet can stall. Expect pass-throughs and plan your backstop accordingly.
The Deercast have taken fallow with Fox bullets since 2022, including carcass inspection of a fallow pricket — the footage is linked from the shop.
Bullets for fallow
Projectiles only — no powder, primers or loaded ammunition.
What is the best bullet weight for fallow deer?
The 6.5mm 123 grain, the .270 130 grain or the .308 150 grain are all well-matched. Move up to the 139, 145 or 165 grain respectively for the largest bucks or longer shots.
Is a .243 enough for fallow?
It is legal in both jurisdictions provided the energy requirement is met, and it works with good shot placement, but the 6mm is at the light end for a mature fallow buck. A 6.5mm or larger gives more margin.
What is the minimum bullet weight for fallow in Scotland?
80 grains, reduced from 100 grains on 3 November 2023 to widen the choice of non-lead ammunition. The 1,750 ft-lb muzzle energy and 2,450 ft/s velocity minimums still apply.
Read next
Oxon Deer stocks the full Fox Classic Hunter range in 6mm, 6.5mm, .270 and .308, in boxes of 50. Browse the shop.