If I were choosing a bullet (for use in rifles) for non big game critters it would be something >71grs. Hopefully I could get an accurate load out of the 55,58,or 60gr bullets. This,given I did not care about pelt damage.
I would want the speed for trajectory purposes,rotational velocity for terminal ballistics,and the thin jacket of a purposely designed varmint bullet.
My 14" pistol does not like the lighter bullets. It's favorite are the 85 and 95gr bullets . . . max fast. --- SAWMAN