IMO I do not consider the .243 a "starter gun!" While some may go even lighter, IDO, consider the .243 as a "minimum caliber" for deer. However, I consider it a "GREAT" minimum caliber! As in it gets the job done WELL! At most normal hunting ranges, a hit with the .243 (in the same spot)will produce the same results! Either a dead deer or a good blood trail leading to a dead deer! As i said, the .243 is a GREAT minimum for deer! Anyone that can't handle a .243,should not be shooting at deer any way!