I am of the opinion that my rifle would be fairly adequate for mule deer out west, especially out to 300 yards. I am not comfortable shooting at anything past this anyway. I have a remington mountain rifle in 7mm-08 with a VX III Leupold 2.5-8X36. It is light and easy handling, as well as being able to shoot an inch to an inch and a quarter. I have some friends who use a bit longer range rifles, (i.e. 7mm rem.mag). I am interested to hear from those of you who regularly hunt mule deer. My hunting has been dione primarily in the east. Thanks for your consideration