I have killed many deer and coyote with a 223 Rem. All of them have been with a bolt gun. I have also killed and seen killed, many of the same animals with the 22/250. Inside of 200 yards, where most furbis taken here in Georgia, I haven't noticed any difference in killing power. I prefer the 223 simply because the twist rate in my gun will allow me to shoot heavier bullets, more suited for deer, hogs, and coyote in my area. Put a 53 gr Barnes TSX in the boiler room, and get your knife ready.