I'm sitting here looking at my Coyote and Wolf killer, out to 400 yards. My .223 Handi Ultra with ejectors. I have a Cabela's 3X12 Tactical scope on it, and the turrent for 55gr bullets. The scope is only dialable out to 300 yards, but I know where it is hitting out at 400. I too got tired of barrel changing, and got rid of the .223 barrel that had been factory fitted to my 30-06 frame. I shoot the Nosler Combined Technologies Ballistic Silvertip. At close ranges I sometimes get a complete pass through on Coyotes, I don't on Wolves. This load would do fine for Whitetail, since they are smaller and far lighter, than an Alaska Wolf.
Now the 22-250, or the 25-06, would be my choice if I wanted something with a little more oomph. With the 22-250 I go on out to 500 yards, maximum accurate range for the Burris Ballistic Plex scope I have on it. With the 25-06 my range is extended on out to 700 yards.