My sons use the 85gr XBT in their .243's,and we have had very good luck with them. I also use the 100gr XBT in my 25.06, and like it real well. I will try the triple shocks this year also. The deer we have killed with them, were killed instantly each time. For my money, Barnes is the only bullet for deer. As far as the range,most of our shots are in the 100 to 150 yd.range,and I have found both bullets to be very effective at those ranges. I would not be afraid to extend that to 200 or 250 if need be. I really like Barnes bullets, and I am sure you will as well. Hope this helps. dogcaller