This argument has been around forever, and both arguments have their merits. I now live in a state, where there are no caliber restrictions. I have seen first hand what a .22WMR can do to a whitetail. The .22WMR dispatches deer efficiently when proper bullet placement is in effect. Proper bullet placement being the neck or head of the animal. I have also seen deer taken humanely with a .17HMR. Again, bullet placement being the contributing factor.
My father in law hunts with a 22-250 and has for quite some time. He routinely shoots over 20 deer a year with this round down here in SC. With that said, he is primarily taking neck shots. Two years ago he shot a 150lb whitetail through the ribs, and the bullet passed through easily. The shot was around 85 yards, and the deer didn't make more than 30 yards before falling down dead. However, when he goes out to Kansas every year, he carries his 7MM-08 or 30-06. He does this because he may have to take a shot at over 200 yards, and I believe Kansas and a .24 caliber minimum requirement.
It is in my opinion as an ethical hunter you must know your hunting situation. You must know your shooting limitations, and that of your rifle. I would feel 100% comfortable taking a deer with .22WMR, a .22 Hornet, .223, .220 swift, .22-250 or any other .22 caliber rounds that I may have left out, excluding the .22 short, long, or long rifle. I know how to use my guns, and their limitations and capabilities.
Happy hunting, and good luck. I am flying back to Washington this year to chase the Mulies around, I can't wait.
