.223 For Deer

Divernhunter · Jul 25, 2014

I would suggest showing more respect for the animal hunted and use a larger bore cartridge. I know it can be done with a 223 under ideal conditions but hunting does nor often give ideal conditions(except on TV) and most people will not pass when something less presents itself. Especially if it is a real trophy.

My 2 Cents and not looking for a fight.

big rifle man · Jul 26, 2014

Divernhunter, thanks for your input. A lot of us are thinking what you're saying.

Guy Miner · Jul 26, 2014

Most of us probably hunt deer with something between a .24 cal and a .30 cal rifle.

I have to admit that the little .223 AR-15 surprised me with how well it does on deer.

Guy

Teknys · Jul 26, 2014

I know it's been said a "million" times.... "Right Bullet + Right Place".
22 center fire in the right hands ... meaning "Make the Shot" not spray and pray. I've seen very good performance from the 60gn PT - full pass thru at 300yds in lungs and out shoulder to ... At least up against the hide in off shoulder at 30 yds - way close for shoulder shot.
If I had one of our coveted Mule Deer Draw permits I plan on using my 270WSM but for an extra doe tag I have grabbed a 22 center fire and done deal. I just recently purchased from SPS the 64gn Bonded. Purposes are Wolf and Doe tags.

Again use the right bullet for the speed and lower mass of the 22 cal. Lots of good examples so far. I like the 60PT but going to try the 64 Bonded.

Polaris · Jul 27, 2014

No doubt a .223 will effectively kill deer with modern bullets placed well. That being said, there are numerous .243-7mm bore rifles available new and used at very reasonable prices that will give you a wider margin of error.

As far as bullets, I think you've gotten good advice if you must use the .223. If another rifle is in your budget, please consider a .243, 260 rem or 7mm-08. All can yield a low-recoil load that will double punch a shoulder or pass through vitals on a tough quartering shot.