This goes to MoNoFletch, I've used a .243 for years now, and have NEVER had to track a deer. And as for the .270, my dad has used a .270 since he was little; if he has had to track a deer, it hasn't been any farther then 50 yards or so. He's also dropped a Pa. 320 lb black bear with a .270. You see, the way I see it, if your a good shot, and can down an animal cleanly, why use anything bigger then you have to and chance blowing up meat. Just my beliefs. But if your starting out hunting here in Pa. a .270, will cleanly down ANY animal to hunt for here. GOOD LUCK!