It is definately enough if he hits it where he needs to. I would not use a hollow point, because if he would happen to hit the shoulder it will probably not punch through. Just make sure that he is comfortable and accurate with the rifle.

I think its capable, but I wouldn't recommend it.

Managed Recoil loads are not available in 223. The idea is that you can get a 270 to shoot with recoil slightly below a 243 while shooting
a .277 caliber bullet that weighs in at 115gr. Bigger cross section and heavier bullet than a 223 and VERY light recoil.

243 is what you need....223 is that even legal where you are?

Last I checked, the rule in Vermont was "any centerfire." Under that rule, seems like even the .17 would be "legal." If I remember correctly, the .223 is legal in about 38 of the 43 states that permit hunting with rifles.

.223 will work, IF, he waits for the right shot, and executes the right shot properly. The Remington Managed Recoil ammo, or a .243 are better choices.

Yep.

I would much rather have a kid comment on bad recoil than see a deer get lost.

At first I doubted this. I couldn't calculate recoil force of these two calibers to have a comparison, but I do know muzzle energy.

With the .243 using a typical 100gr. psp bullet and the .270 with it's 115gr. managed recoil psp, I see the energy in foot pounds is 3.75% greater at the muzzle with the .243 over the .270. Interesting.

iSnipe

Best response yet. Just cause it can doesn't qualify it as something you should use. Much better choices for kids IMO like the 243, 45 cal muzzleloader or even a .357 lever action,

"The smallest rifle I have is a 223... "

Whats the next smallest?

For a small framed, short armed person, I'd lean more
towards what fits and feels good to them.

Shoots some targets with whatever guns you think might work.
Might surprise you what he can shoot.

I know the .223 would work fine for most shots (assuming its legal).
Several of my peers use various .22hi-powered rounds.
Figure that most deer are well within 100yds when shot.

For me though, I just don't want to face the biggest deer of my lifetime, presenting a poor shot angle(for caliber), with the smallest gun in my cabinet. I know that's how it'd happen for me.

do you know how many deer have been killed with 22's. practice practice practice and a bean flip will bring em down