223 vs 357/44mag for kids 1st deer rifle

[huntin42]

What's everyone's thoughts on a kids first deer rifle? He's 6, but he's solid - not a toothpick type boy.
I'd considered a single shot 223 but I'm wondering if there arnt better options...

For instance - pistol calibers. I know ruger made some semi auto 44mags. Thats what got me thinking. Open to 357/44 in levers or single shots also.

I feel like recoil would be similar, without giving up bullet diameter. Not worried ab distance as we'll be woods hunting with shots around 50 yards.

Being that i have very little experience with pistol calibers in rifles, id love to hear any ideas/advice yall care to share.

 

[medium187mph]

.243

 

[Billybob270]

FYI....Just me 2¢ worth.
I have a .357 Henry lever rifle, and it has almost no recoil when shooting. Rifle is a little heavy to carry around, but they make a single shot .357 that should work great. Also on a .223 round at 62 gr would have to be a good shot to drop a deer. On a .357 round at 140~150 gr would have more "hitting" energy, and the shot doesn't have to be as accurate to drop a deer.
You know how it is on a first deer, he's not going to be very steady with his aim......

 

[Boot71]

My youngest daughter with her first deer.
Single shot .223 using Federal Fusion 62gr.

 

[K79540]

Youth model 243 single shot..with interchangeable barrel

 

[Boot71]

My eldest grandson with his first.
Single shot 44, using handloads with 240gr Hornady XTP bullet.

If you notice my post above.......take your pick. Either will do the job, provided the young hunter is comfortable with the rifle and does their job of putting it in the right place.

 

[wc123]

Either will work just fine within that range with good shot placement and the right bullet. Likely get a better blood trail from the bigger bullets, but I've seen some decent bucks dropped in their tracks with a 223....again shot placement, bullet selection, and range are critical, but that's with any caliber.

 

[wc123]

ever consider 300blk?

 

[fattboyzz]

Close range woods gun ?

Lever action 44.

 

[UGA FAN]

.350 Legend