A Caution for Deer Hunters

Deer hunters are being warned of potential bullet fragmentation in venison. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says microscopic fragmentation can occur within 18 inches of the exit hole. The kind of bullets and weapons used also make a difference. the DNR study finds rifle bullets are more likely to fragment than those shot from muzzleloaders or shotguns. And, copper bullets were less likely to fragment than those designed to mushroom quickly. Finally, the DNR says washing the carcass appears to spread the lead to other parts of the animal.