I have a 30-06 that I really like so that's my choice. However, a couple buddies have .270's that they kill plenty of deer with. I'd wouldn't hesitate to use one of those either. Another buddy has a .243 I've never seen him shoot at a deer with as he just got it out to use this year and never got a good shot with it but I really like it. For some reason it makes me kind of want a .243.