When should I step up to .25, .30, .35, or larger?

Step up when you need more energy at distance or for tougher game. .25 is popular for raccoon and crow-sized pests at 50 to 75 yards from a powerful PCP, and .30 is the entry to true long-range and small-deer-class hunting. .35, .45, and .50 are big-bore territory used for hogs, predators, and even deer-sized game in states that allow it. Texas requires at least .30 caliber, a 150-grain bullet, and 215 ft-lbs muzzle energy for deer-class game, while Virginia requires at least .35 caliber for deer. Larger calibers eat air fast and shot count drops.