5.56 vs 308 for a deer rifle?

For deer, go 308. 5.56/.223 is light, cheap, and great on varmints and predators, but it is marginal on deer and is actually illegal for deer in a number of states because it lacks the energy for reliably ethical kills. 308 carries plenty of energy for deer, hogs, even elk well past 300 yards, with a wide selection of hunting bullets. The cost is more recoil and pricier ammo. Reserve 5.56 for varmints where it is legal; choose 308 for big game, and check your state caliber minimums.