As a small bore novice, what is the benefit of shooting heavy bullets outta a .224 bore rifle? Aren't .224 bore rifles for small game such a coyotes?
I'd think one would be better served going with a .243 Win or a .270 Win, both being excellent for Rocky Mountain mule deer, and both will shoot very long distances. With 150 grain Partitions, the .270 Win is suitable for all North American big game save the largest bears.