1) do y’all think there is even such thing as a brush gun... as in an actual round that’s capable of push light brush and twigs out of the way without deflection?

LONG long time ago, an in-depth test PROVED that ANY bullet was deflected. Key was, a very light bullet (say 55 gr 223) was deflected a lot more than a big ol' fat (say, cast RN 405 gr 45-70) bullet. Bottom line - don't go trying to shoot deer thru trees. It is pure stupidity, and not ethical!

Having said THAT, for brush, there are a bunch (both OLD and new). Some I have that I consider brush calibers (more because close range game getters, and quick in lever and iron sight setups) are lever guns in 30-30, 32 WS, 35 Rem, 43 Spanish and 45-70. Olders in 38-55, 405, 348 Win, 33 WCF, etc. More gun/cal combo. Same with any of the Savage 99s in heavy calibers or slow rounds, like 30-30, 303, 358. Oh yeah, and BLR in 358 Win!!! A good bolt in 300 H&H/375 H&H/458 Win, with good peep sights (think Africa rifles) would be great too