Ballistically, I am thoroughly underwhelmed.
However, given such favorable characteristics and powerful pedigree as outlined above, I' m surprised it didn' t make the " cut" for your " Minimum Battery For North America:
357mag/38 spcl. with 18 1/2" barrel--small game up to deer
44mag/44 spcl. with 16" barrel--hot loaded will handle game in NA, 44 special loads are great for small game and plinking...this would be my lightweight, short, compact, carry-all-day rifle
30-06 with 26" barrel--would be my tree stand, long range rifle (as far as I should ever shoot at game)
45-70--great from deer to brown bear
Never Go Undergunned,
EKM