Not trying to be a wise guy but you pretty much answered your own question with your last paragraph. Scotty gave you good advice to reference but doing as you said will let you know what your rifle will like and tolerate. Case in point. I've been doing the same thing with my Tikka 6.5x55 using...
Nothing wrong with a 20ga for your son or you. Have seen my son drops turkeys at 45-48 yds with TSS loads but the Winchester Long Beard #6 does about as equally well to 40-45 yds. Works closer too:LOL:
Welcome. You won't have any problems using the Partition on whitetail deer. Have used them successfully in the 243,25-06,270win,30-06 on WV deer, all with good results. Sometimes a little finicky getting great accuracy but always more than adequate. Good hunting.
So far, the only Bergers I have shot were in a 6BR that loved them. Haven't poked a deer with a Berger but know those who have. Just going by their results and others posted here I think I'll just stay with what's been working, bullets that have been told about here.
Sorry to hear about your son. I pray that you will find comfort and the understanding that will carry you through this difficult time. Thanks for reaching out to us here to share your grief with you and pray for you and your family. I have found that placing one's faith and trust in Jesus is...
That $3.53 price for possum reminds me of the time on a double date with a friend he stopped to pick up a dead possum out of the road said it was worth $4.00. That was in 1975 or 76. He and his dad were trappers.