There are just too many variables to consider than simply how far a deer goes (or not) after it's been shot.

"Which caliber rifle legal in your state for deer do you shoot the best" would be a better question, IMO. I hunt deer with either a .243 or .30-06. While I certainly don't consider the .30-06 the recoiler my .300 or my .375 are, I shoot the .243 more comfortably and - consequently - I'm more prone to concentrate on putting the shot where it needs to go than I am wondering whether I'll break my collarbone. And, that probably influences in turn how many more bang-flops I've had with a .243 versus any other caliber in my battery.