02-28-2014, 03:22 PM
Drifter Wrote:If a 200-yard deer killer is the goal, the 223 is surprisingly effective (with appropriate bullets)...Indeed, MidwayUSA lists seventeen factory loads classed as for "Medium Game" for the .223 Remington. The .223 may take a lot of deer, but I assert that more are lost, especially the larger ones, than many admit. The trend toward heavier bullets and premium bullets has helped with game harvesting reliability but this caliber exemplifies the value of shot placement.
The .243 Winchester has sixteen factory loads classified as medium game loads with bullets weighing less than 90 grains. This tells us those largely premium lighter bullets work well enough that people continue to buy them.
Going with a lead-free bullet in the 70 - 90 grain range would give the Grendel enough velocity to be seen by some as more interesting.
I would concur, however, that those of us who want to bust things out further than about 300 yards will continue to use things like the 123 gr SST and smile!