Well, regardless of an elk vs a deer being depicted, there is a distinct difference in size between Southeastern deer and those in the West. I grew up hunting deer in Utah, and when I left there for a job in South Carolina 30 years ago, I took a 7mm Rem mag. First time I went hunting in SC, I watched a load of deer wander through a field without my even thinking about taking a shot. What I thinking....was....why are there so many yearlings around, and in herds. Then a "yearling" appeared with an 8 point rack, which precipitated are a rather rapid reassessment of what size of deer inhabited SC. So, the 7mm nailed the deer, except it took 50 yards before it keeled over, and I couldn't tell the entrance from exit wound. The bullet just passed through, without expanding. So, I thought about that for awhile, and purchased a 243.....works just fine (yes, I know all about the "thin skinned game" bullets, but 30 years ago such didn't exist). And, y'all, though we have to shoot more deer (a hardship.....more time hunting, and away from the weekend "honeydo" list....a tragedy, in fact) to obtain a decent supply of venison, it, in general, is far more tender than that of the larger deer.
