I would opt for a 30 30 in a Marlin for the little fellow, especially if shots are going to be close. My second choice would be the 25 06. Lots of reach, with minimal recoil. I don't want to stir the pot, but, I've seen too many people with a 243 wound and not recover deer. There is no room for error with the 24 bore. I do know that the 25 06 will drive a 120 grain through an elk on a broadside. I have a couple buddies that use the 25 06 for moose, and they have never lost one. They are a lightening strike on deer, and great for varmints too.