I still stand by a 243 in regards to a rifle. Low recoil, light weight and in most cased cost effective, As mentioned no problem taking deer down.

Keep in mind that shot placement is key, and as another board member mentioned in another posting many escimos (? spelling) hunt pollar bears with 22 cal. rifles and I have viewed hunitng footage with these same people dropping these bear, which are the largest on the planet, with 243's as well.

However, all the adivse given has been good in my oppinion. It a matter of personal choice and sound knowledge of ethical shot placements.

Good Luck!

KEEP HUNTING THE GREAT OUTDOORS & GOD ALIVE, PASS IT ON!