[M.T. Pockets]

I know several people who hunt deer with a .243 with no complaints.

Here in Minnesota there is a minimum caliber requirement of .23 for deer, so the .223 and other centerfire .22's aren't used.

If recoil is still an issue with a .243, you could always get it ported, or buy one with a BOSS unit. Just be sure to wear ear protection at all times. That should reduce recoil to a very mild level.

I'm glad your wife is still willing to keep hunting with her bad shoulder. I separated a shoulder in a farming accident about 20 years ago, exactly one week before deer season. I was told to keep my arm in a sling for a month til I could have surgery. I did, except for two days during deer season.