Not trying to start anything, but can you explain why you wouldn't feel comfortable using .223 on anything bigger than a coyote? The 77gr TMK has been shown to be an effective killer on animals several times the size of whitetail deer, let alone coyotes. There is plenty of proof in this thread. I just don't understand the hang up.
I'll just say in BK's defense of his skepticism , I also read the whole thread, accepted what I was seeing as fact, loaded up some TMK's for the AR, and used it on this years hunt (against the advice of some hunting buddies).
BUT have to admit, when I drew down on that first deer at 154 yards, I was half expecting the round to bounce off, forcing me to transition to my pistol 357sig at 154 yards anyone? OK, I wasn't really THAT worried, but before I pulled that trigger, I seriously was hoping I hadn't made a mistake. I didn't, nor a couple days later when the second deer of the week was DRT. NOW I am fully convinced.
I don't think it's for everyone, but I couldn't have had a better outcome, and these animals when down as fast any anything I've ever shot with 30/06, 7mm mag or 444. And down faster than some I've shot with those rounds.