I have had a want for some time...

[CZ93X62]

I have yet to point any 243 at a deer-sized critter, though I do load deer-capable bullets for the caliber. Given the usual sizes of California muleys, a 243 is likely adequate for most of them here, assuming decent bullet construction. The 243 is a SUPERB long-range varmint caliber, it has a bit of an edge over the 22-250 and a significant edge over the 223.

 

[CWLONGSHOT]

Im not "wanting" for a small caliber... I just always wanted a 6mm Rem.
My small 25 is a 25/45 think light 250 Savage in a AR. Shoots very well but heavy. Fine if ya dont walk or need to walk far. 110g Hornadys are closing on 2700 and have been devastating on deer the 90g Sierra also worked well on deer and coyotes. 87's didnt shoot well? 117 RN can be moved to 2450fps and are also accurate. Might be a excellent 1-150y freezer filler.
My 6.5 Grendel is another favorite this one is a HOWA Bolt and it is also very accurate. 85g are reliable shooters and probably very good on small critters. The 120/123g have been great on deer. Gold Dots and Sierra Pro Hunters plop boringly into a dime at 100.

Both of those will do about anything a 6mm would do for me. Somehow that dont really matter when ya have a want.

Love the stories and always advice. Keep it coming guys!