No doubt it will kill deer, but not a great choice for that role compared to something a bit bigger. Why limit yourself? Also, is it legal in your state? I bought a .223, thinking to use it for predators and some doe hunting, but have since started hunting in a bordering state that only allows .23 (?) caliber and larger for deer.
On the other hand, if you really like the rifle, that alone is a good reason to buy it. Figger the rest out later.
