RE: Best caliber for lever action Whitetail rifle?
Hi Clattin,
Not a thing in the world wrong with any of the calibers you named. Any of them would work very well indeed. And I think the addition of a peep (aperature) sight would be a good thing.
As have been named by some additional cartridges that could be considered are the .44 Magnum, .358 Winchester, and if you were so inclined even some older classics, (in certain rifles), like the .300 Savage, .303 Savage, .32 Win. Special, .348 Win., as well as a few other " older cartridges" . Assuming you don' t mind the additional " time and expense" involved in obtaining ammunition. But they add to the flavor of the period. (I think Winchester is currently chambering its Model 95 in the old .405 Winchester....a very potent and interesting cartridge.) It' s a great time to be a lever action fan!
Good luck with your search!