The .243 Win will takeany deer in NA. There are 2 main things to remember whenusing the .243 Win for deer:
1.) Choose the correct bullet and bullet weight. Don't use a varmint bullet or a duel (varmint/deer) purpose bullet. If you reload, usethe betterpenetrating bullets like the Speer Grand Slam (100gr), the Nosler Partition (100gr), BarnesTSX (85gr), Scirocco II (90gr), and the likes.If you use factory ammo, stick to 100gr loads or loads that offer the bullets listed above.
2.) Pick your shot and shot placement carefully. It is critical that the shot placement be precise, especially with large bodied deer. Don't try to break major bones or shoot thruthe shoulders. A double lung or heart shot with a .243Win is devestating and will result in a clean kill, with short recovery.

The Savage is a great rifle.No frills, no bells,and no whistles. Just a accurate, rugged, and dependable rifle.