I think a .223 is one of my favorite calibers. It's very effective around the yard on coyote, groundhogs, etc. It's also the most economical caliber to load for when factoring in 5.56 brass can be had for close to free.
I am quickly coming to the same conclusion. Every time I sell a 223 rifle it haunts me till I replace it. It’s the perfect rifle to keep ready for when a small unwanted critter pops out. Been shooting a reduced load of 12.5 grains of Blue Dot under a 55 grain bullet and love it. Very accurate and a noticeable drop in noise over a standard load
