I shoot a 7rum and will shoot it against anyone. I do however shoot animals other than deer such as elk and muleys. I get irritated at some of the other hunters around me who say that it is overkill, last I checked a deer or any animal for that matter can't be overkilled. I shoot very well out to 500 yds and yes I do make those shots quite often. I don't recommend anyone starting out with a magnum. I think everyone should start out with a 410 or 30/30 like I did but thats just my opinion. I guess everyone has different opinions on what they like, if you can't handle a magnum then stick with the smaller calibers, that just leaves more ammo for me!