Lots of good answers so far.

For me a lot depends on circumstances. A trim bolt gun in .223 or .22-250 with an 1:8 twist would be my first inclination these days. Don't overlook the 6mm Max.

The modern bullets perform so well there really isn't a lot more needed. Lately I've been using a .223 with 77gr TMKs for deer.

I can tell you that the 55gr Hornady sp has worked very well out of a .22-250 and my sons first deer were taken with 243s and 85gr tsx with no drama.

Much depends on the person doing the shooting. Their stature, experience, familiarity with the gun and how it fits all play into perceived recoil.

“You never need fear a man, no matter what his size. When danger threatens, call on me, and I will equalize.”
Samuel Colt.

�Common sense is genius dressed up in work clothes.� - Ralph Waldo Emerson