I don't think I've hit 9 deer, but I think 6 is a safe number (lost count). Plus the ones my wife has hit. Plus countless 'close-calls'. Those I've hit, there were as many on clear sunny days as at night, none speeding. I've literally had deer just suddenly dart out from a field (sometimes not even woods!) at full speed. Now....you'd say, "well just hit your brakes!". Sounds like good advice. But as you guys know deer have really terrible eyesight. And when they do see what you are (up close) they can do unpredictable things like suddenly decided to change direction, go faster, slow down, jump. Sometimes go the direction of your travel, or skate around on pavement like ice. Their movements can happen at the snap of the fingers at the last split second ..while yer riding the brakes. Sometimes despite a driver's best evasive maneuvering ...ya still end up hitting them, unfortunately.
A robust front bumper is only going to be partially effective. I've had deer literally face-plant my passenger door/window...or ya clip them in the corner and they swing around and damage the side (sometimes significantly). Or flip up and damage the hood, and/or crush the windshield. I hit one in a car that flipped up and completely went over the top of the car ...land and keep on running. I wouldn't put an ugly monsterous (and taxing) front bumper on my tk thinking it'll completely eliminate deer damage. They don't. Get one that looks cool b/c you like it. Hopefully it'll help out just in case.