what do you all think of using a 223. for whitetails?
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what do you all think of using a 223. for whitetails?
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You will definitely kill the deer with a good shot. In my mind, the problem would be tracking. It would seem to be such a fast, small bullet that it would just fragment violently and not leave an exit hole. The deer would die, but I think you would have a hard time finding it. I wouldn't do it. If I am wrong, someone tell me why.
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With a well placed shot, you can certainly take a whitetail with a .223; however, out of respect for the life of the whitetail I intend to take, I wouldn't use a .22 centerfire for whitetail. I consider the .223 well suited to smaller game, but the rib cage, sternum or shoulder of a whitetail could deflect a 55-60 grain bullet, requiring a quick follow-up shot or permitting a wounded whitetail to escape or suffer a lingering death. A larger caliber (and heavier bullet) would penetrate with better certainty. If an individual wanted a lighter recoil rifle for whitetail, I would avoid the use of the minimum margin of choice in preference of a .24-.25-.26 caliber rifle that would provide more power, greater assurance of a quick kill.
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Anything less than .240 is illegal in Wyoming for big game. However I have seen hunters easily kill whitetails in Mississippi using a .223 while being careful to put the shot where it is needed.
Years ago I witnessed a guy killing a spike bull elk with one 52 gr Hornady from a .22-.250 at about 75 yards. It dropped like it was hit by a .300 Weatherby.
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