RE: .223 or .22-250
I'd take the 223 over the 22-250, since I'll not be shooting over 300 yds, and the Savage 223 has a 1-9" twist which stabilizes my favorite deer bullet quiet well. The speer 70 gr simi spitzer is an awsome bullet for deer if you are careful with shot placement. I'll also agree with the rest on here that something a little heavier would be a better choice. The 243 Win can do double duty and is somewhat better for deer size game, with great accuracy and mild recoil.