OK - a little off topic and verbose -
No worries, John - I appreciate the idea. My idea was to use what I have. I figured the handguns (esp. if I can push out past 25 yards - again, no worries on accuracy, just have to check energy levels), and the newly acquired AR would be my best bets.
I have several options with the shotgun. However, the 16 gauge and one of the 12 gauges are "safe queens" - passed down from my grandfather, to dad, to me. Well, I guess the 12 ga (1897 Remington) could be used, but don't want to modify it at all. The other 12 gauge would be an option, it is an older Mossberg model.
Oddly enough, I do have a .30-06 (which was passed down), but it is a Woodmaster 742, which they don't make parts for anymore, and I would hate to do something to damage it.
I am afraid 80% of my experience with firearms is handgun related, or shotgun related (hunting ducks and dove) - so I am learning about rifles.
I try to read as much as I can, and talk to friends who hunt deer, but most use .270, or 7mm; they are a little leary that a .223 can take down a deer (though forum postings on here have indicated otherwise). I am very accurate with an old 22 which was handed down (
I realize how blessed I am to have such considerate grandfathers / father) - I anticipate the skill will carry over to the AR (I hope)...
WHEW - long post - sorry.