A 308 is an excellent cartridge for whitetail deer. Up in Canada the locals use 303's and 308's for moose and they don't seem to have any problems. I use a 30/06 there is very little difference in the ballistics but the 308 has less recoil and is proven to be more accurate. The ammunition is by far cheaper then short magnums. I may be old fashioned but the 308 would be my choice for sure.