is 223 safe for deer

take-em · 01-31-2004, 06:57 PM

i was wondering if 223 is safe for deer
i am thinking about getting either a 223 or a 243
which one do u think i should get
i will be using it for crows deer coyotes fox and a little racoon
any help would be greatly appreciated

take em

Ruger-Redhawk · 01-31-2004, 07:08 PM

First of all check your states regulations. Probably a 223 is not legal for deer.Most states if not all have a min.caliber size. The 223 would do it with a experience hunter. Do I recommend it? No.I think a 243 is light for deer but many do use them.For the small game you mentioned the 223 would be fine.For deer do them a favor and use a caliber suited for deer size game. I like the 270 Win for whitetails.The main thing is shot placement no matter what caliber you use.You owe to the game to make the most humane kills possible.
Ruger Redhawk

Aught Six · 01-31-2004, 07:09 PM

I would go with the .243 for sure--it's a great round for both deer and varmints. Plus the .223 really isn't the best caliber for deer, although it can be used with good ammo and proper shot placement. Here in Virginia it's illegal to use any .22 caliber rifle cartridge for deer, though. Believe me, you can't go wrong with a .243!

James B · 01-31-2004, 08:32 PM

In the state where I hunt the 223 is a legal caliber. With precise shot placement it will do the job but I would look to a 25 caliber to get a really good dual purpose deer/varmit rifle. Although I used a 243 for deer quite a bit, IMO its best used for all size Varmits. For this it is hard to beat. A 25-06 would be ideal.

T/C fan! · 01-31-2004, 08:59 PM

Here in Ky, any centerfire caliber is legal. But, we as responsible sportsmen, owe too much respect to the game we chase to use a marginal caliber. In a perfect-shot situation, the 223 will do the job, but we know that a perfect broad- side shot is not always the case. Go with the 243. It makes a great dual-purpose rifle for deer and varmints.

frizzellr · 01-31-2004, 09:24 PM

There is no good reason to shoot deer with a 223 Rem or any other 22 caliber round.

Deleted User · 01-31-2004, 10:58 PM

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handloader1 · 01-31-2004, 11:13 PM

.243 Win. Good luck.

JagMagMan · 02-01-2004, 04:15 AM

Since you'll be buying a gun anyway, do the deer a favor and get a real deer caliber of at least .243 on up!

buckmastr229 · 02-01-2004, 05:38 AM

Go with the 243 i shot alot of deer with it it is a great gun