I like the Kimber rifles, but that's personal choice. As for the .223 on deer, MANY years ago I was forced to shoot low recoil rifles due to an eye surgery. I borrowed an 722 Remington in .222 with an old 2x or 5x Weaver variable from a friend. I was careful of the shots (actually, shot) I took, nothing marginal. I got my deer that year, dead right there. I don't think the .222 or .223 are ideal deer cartridges, but they will do the trick if you choose your shots and use the right bullets. And sometimes physical limits arise with regard to recoil. IF the original poster's shoulder can handle the recoil, a .250 Savage or one of the smaller 6mm cartridge might be perfect.
