Hope this is not taken wrong. It is not intended as an insult or anything. It is just that I am a bit of a stickler for proper communication (not correct spelling as I am poor in that field)

This post is titled "whitetail deer rifle" and then is asks nothing about a "rifle" It asks what is the best "caliber" and then lists a number of "cartridges"

My answer to this conveluted question is: A fast handling rifle that is easy to get up to the shoulder for the first shot and can be cycled fast while keeping on target for a follow up shot if nessasary. A low power scope or a good open sight. A cartridge with a good bullet,capable of penetrating into and through the vitals, even if the angle is not an open broadside.(at 150 yards or less) Still hunting, sitting in a tree stand, rattling and calling.

A lever action, pump or semi-auto,with a peer or a low power scope in .308 would fit the bill. It would in my view be a better "deer rifle" that a long barreled bolt action with a high powered scope in 7mm rem. mag.

I use a lever actionSav. 99 in .300 sav. with a 2 to 7 power scope.

Robin