My .243 has worked out perfectly for my area. I hunt in Central Texas. Those well versed on the biology of the deer in the hill country know fully well that these things are like dogs with long legs. There's alot of 'em, but it doesn't take alot. .223 has been used to take deer many times. Is this reckless? Not exactly. Given that the deer are much smaller than the deer of upstate New York, South Texas, and the Midwest, this caliber is fine. I tend to go with the 100gr. bullet over the 55 gr. However, the key to this caliber anywhere is shot placement. Of course, is that any different than anywhere else? I wouldn't say that .243 is an experts round, not is it the default for beginners. Its a great all around round given the area. Its really great for Central Texas, given the deer size, and the fact that turkey may also be taken during deer season, and a little bullet is much prefered. I haven't shot every deer with my .243 perfectly, and the imperfect shots did go down, or not travel far ( < 75 yds.) I'd say, if you're getting a .243 for the fact that it has a baby kick and the rounds are cheaper, take ADVANTAGE of that, and shoot at the range a lot. There is a smaller margin of error with this round, but in all I have been very pleased with how it's worked for me.