You know, I've been cogitating about the comments in this thread, including my own. Looking back over my last 50+ years of hunting, I have used many different rifles to kill a lot of deer. Some were specialized, most were not. I can't say that I ever failed to take a deer with one rifle when I would have taken it with a different type rifle, at least I can't think of one right off.
I think it is as much to do with the shooter's familiarity with the rife as the rifle's characteristics. In the early 80s I pieced together my first 7X57 using a Mark X action and a blem Fajen full stock. It was heavy and of medium length, but I carried it exclusively for 2 or 3 years and kinda 'grew' into it. I ended up making shots on running deer with that rifle that I still hardly believe. Being familiar with your rifle can make up for a lot!
