Both the 135 and 140 Bergers will work great for your intended use. I've killed quite a few deer with various Berger bullets and never had an issue. Shot two this last season with the 140 one was DRT other made it maybe 20 yards
Luckily where I'm located is about two and a half hours from the panhandle so at least don't have to worry there. Hopefully these upcoming rain chances will come through and put the fire out. My condolences for all those who have been affected by it.
I had very good luck with the hornady precision hunter 143 ELDX when I had my creedmore. Almost always put two holes in em and animals never went far. I ended up moving to the PRC just because..