If the 300 Win Mag is just right for elk, then the 223 is overkill for the largest mule deer.
Snaggletooth would say that sounds logical, but we don't need killing power to match the game. We need a rifle that has the maximum range and accuracy, with tolerable recoil, and still only weighs 10 pounds or less.
A boy's hunting rifle weighs 5 pounds. A man's hunting rifle weighs 10 pounds.
This equation is what drives the rifle choice. [despite millions words rationalizing] The best elk gun and the best antelope gun both start to look like a 7mmRemMag.
What is wrong with the 223? Great weight. Great low recoil...
But the not great range and and not great side wind immunity.
But the 223 will kill the antelope.
Yes, and if you can put salt on a bird's tail, you can catch it.
