I have a 30/06 and a .243 .what do I use on deer the 06.for me the .243 does not come close ,forget all well placed shot ,drops anything on the spot etc etc .with a 06 you have a margin of error.great bullet choice easy to reload moderate recoil ,if modded.if its your first large centrefire consider a 308 .very easy on the shoulder good bullet choice.you can come and have a go of my 06 if your not too far.