There's been alot of the pro's and con's over the .223 issue here . Although I know a .223 ( coming out of a Mini-14 ) will fold a good size buck down with one shot inside 100yd . Having that extra punch through heavy bush or being able to accurately take that longer shot gives me more confidence in what I'm doing . The weapon I choose depends on where I hunt . Some areas offer open spaces , thats when I'll use my good ol' .303brit. I know that I can shoot with a high degree of accuracey at longer distances , say 100yd plus. In heavy bush , where alot of the shots are 50 - 75yd , I'll either take my Win. 94 (32spec.) or the 12ga. slugger . I feel that wether the hunter likes to use a .223 or a Elephant gun , his confidence in what he/she is doing and knowing the capabilites of that favorite gun ( that means alot more shooting than once a year ) is the best way to make the most out of the " tool of the trade " When it boils right down to it ---------->>