It would be a good round to learn to shoot with, getting used to the bang and a light recoil. Although I definately wouldnt recommend it to use for deer hunting. Maybe for coyote or something smaller but it would be too easy for a young kid to get discouraged when he knows that he hit the animal he was shooting at and it runs away, only to find it later all bled out and possibly bloated. I know myself I wish that I could use my .223 to shoot deer with, but I am experienced enough to know where I should aim for and when to and not to pull the trigger.