I own a .338 and I love the accuracy but the kick took a little getting used to. I really am confident with it up to 300 yards, zeroed in at 100, but after that the drop is way too much to be accurate. I have used 200 and 220 grain ammo. Maximum kill rate...have not lost an animal yet nor do I have to track them far. For the best flat shooting gun for deer I recommend a 25-06, if you are accurate you can really reach out and touch an animal from long distance. I believe the 25-06 is legal for deer in KY. 7mm is probably the best all around from my experience...but it really comes down to which weapon you are most comfortable with, oh yeah and accurate.