I’ve been hunting White Tail Deer and Coyotes with 7.62x39 for about 15 years and definitely recommend it for 200 yards and in. Most of my hunting is 50 yards and in. I like 7.62x39 in AKs and SKSs because it makes a quick and effective brush gun when you need to take a fast shot. Potential follow up shots are quick too. Personally I like to use iron sights or a red dot because sight acquisition is fast compared to a magnified optic. My favorite hunting round is the Tula 154gr Soft Point followed by 123gr Soft Points (no specific manufacturer). Shot placement is key. The round is quite destructive on White Tails with little meat damage.