I have shot deer with .224, 243, .257, .264, .277, .284, and .308.
They all work, you pay your money and take your choice.
I have plenty of rifles in .323 and .338 that would probably work, too.
My personal favorites are 6.5-06 120 gr NBT and 7mmRM 140 gr NBT.
c It makes little difference when shot is well-placed. There are some extra fine choices like custom shop Model 7 cal 7-08 with light Kevlar reinforced stock. It comes down to ease of carrying a rifle especially if one has a lot of walking to do.
