Since this sounds like your first high powered rifle I would stick to the 243. The recoil is minimal and it makes a great varmint on up to deer gun. ...Deleted by CalHunter... It is all about shot placement boys. I shoot 95gr Combined Technology Ballistic Tips when I shoot deer with my 243. I also have a 7mm, and I use Hornady 139gr SSTs in that. The deer will not know the difference what caliber hits them, cuz as long as you can place your shot well, they are going down.