Anybody use .243 ammo?

[Lancer89]

I'm buying a rifle, (in Ireland so i'm restricted as to what i can get) and at the moment i'm undecided between .243 and .308 rounds. I'm looking at a remington 700, available in both calibres but i'd like to hear any opinions or experiences anyone has with .243 or even .308?
Thanks!

[Benda]

They are both great cartridges, but personally I would choose the .308 for it's reliability on heavier game. Having said that, I've also taken decent size ferals with a .243 and even the lighter .223

I mostly hunt pigs in close with my .30-30 lever, or the .270 for a well placed longer shot.

I'd firstly be asking what you're using it for?

[gazzthompson]

What are you using it for?

I know people who swear by the Winchester for the likes of Chinese water deer or Muntjac etc . Im going deer hunting next month and the guy uses .243 . .308 might be abit over kill if your also going to be shooting rabits/Foxes.

[Lancer89]

Thanks for the replies! Initially its going to be just target shooting, but deer stalking is the main plan as well as possibly smaller game/vermin ie foxes... but deer would be the main target.

[nastyleg]

243 is good on deer just not so good on elk. Plus 243 can be used for rabbits and legged small game. From mu experience 243 upto a 200+ deer is good if you can pull off a great stalk and heart,lung side shot.

[Mel]

I agree with Nasty,I've consistently taken Deer in the 200+lb. range with the .243cal..You have to pick and chose your shots wisely,I always go for the lung shot.But anything heavier I would go with the .308.

[goinloco1]

308 may be a bit overkill for what you plan on using the weapon for. A 308 is more of a distance gun and not for short ranges.
The 243 would be your better choice for your plans.