Reducing a load in a .223 is like driving your truck with the emergency brake on. Why? Use it at it efficient capacity. I like to use a 65gr bullet in my .223 pushing about 3100fps with hardly any recoil at all. I've taken many whitetail at 25-250yds. If it where legal in my state I would use a .22lr during antlerless portion of our deer season. If a .22lr will pass through a 2x450yds, I'd say it will kill about anything at the rite distance placed correctly.

God, Family, and Guns. Be strong in your beliefs and work hard.