The 243 is a better varmit rds more bullets cheaper brass ect. The 25-06 is better if you are going to use it on bigger stuff better bullets. Other that these points they both work well.
Posts: 19692 | Location: wis | Registered: 21 April 2001
quote:Originally posted by GSF1200: If you want a Varmit/Deer gun get the .243. If you want a Deer/Varmit gun get the 25-06.
Yes, that's exactly right.
The .243 is a varmint rifle that can be used for the smaller big game. The 25/06 is a rifle for small to medium big game that can also be used as a varminter.
The 25/06 has more blast and kick and will use more powder, so it will be more expensive to load for if those considerations matter to you.
Posts: 5883 | Location: People's Republic of Maryland | Registered: 11 March 2001
I think the .243 is a great varmint rig but for game bigger than coyote, stick to .25-06 & up. In the hands of a good shot, anything will take big game, but the unexpected often happens & bigger calibers offer a bit of insurance (JMHO).
Posts: 7752 | Location: kalif.,usa | Registered: 08 March 2001
Perhaps so GSF 1200, but a reloaded 100 grainer from a 25-06 is doing 3400+ fps which provides a flatter tragectory and more smack. It is a great cartridge.
I love the .243. It is a great cartridge with a wide range of applications. Having said that, sooner rather than later it will fail on deer. It has happened to me and to everyone that I personally know who is using a .243 for deer. If you are shopping for a deer rifle only I think you would be better served with the 25'06 and heavier bullets. The .243 is a great round for varmints and such, but for deer I would opt for the 25'06.
Ditto what crowrifle said. I have 5 .243s and 2 .25-06s. I have had some inconsistant results with the .243s on coyotes and deer. Not so with the .25-06 with 100 gr Nosler Ballistic Tips. I have killed over 100 deer with that combo and all bullets exited and no deer went more than about 3 hops.
"kills like chain lightin'"
------------------ Jesus is the reason for the season.
