What kind of deer hunting do you plan to do (tree stand, stalk, still hunt) and what are the laws as to whats a legal firearm? Whats your age, and your build? Some younger, small built people can't handle full size harder recoiling guns. As far as rifle calibers go it's mighty hard to beat a 7mm-08. It can be had in a youth size rifle all the way up to a full size one. It's light of recoil and great to start out with. Many very experienced hunters use it regularly because it's absolutely deadly on deer. Not a bad elk caliber either. Go to your local gun shop and check out all the different rifles. You'll find one that just feels and looks better than the others. All the major gunmakers make very good rifles. When you find that rifle thats right for you then you see what calibers it comes in and pick the best one for you.