243 Bullets

[BCHunter]

I will be hunting in CO this fall for Muledeer and was wondering what bullets you guys use. My rifle shoots the Federal Premium 100 gr BTSP well (1.25" groups). However, I have been shooting the Federal Premium 85 grain HP bullets some this spring and am getting groups of 3/4" or less.

What would you suggest? Thanks.

P.S. I have a 308 which I will be using for Elk, but given the chance, I would like to hunt the MD with my 243. I just like shooting the little guy.

 

[DallanC]

100grn Nosler Partitions work wonders on deer and antelope. I wouldnt use anything lighter than a 95grn bullet due to them being intended for lighter skinned animals (ie: coyotes) and they blow up really fast on a deer.

I never recovered a single .243 100grn partition from my wifes 350BC Caribou, complete pass throughs.


-DallanC

 

[Buckrub]

Ahhhh, another .243 fan!!! Of all the calibers I shoot, I just love my .243!!
I too shoot 85gr.bthp (Sierra) out of my weapon and they group 1" or usually less every time!!
But, for big muleys, I'd have to opt for a little bigger, or better "pill".
Nosler Partitions, Swift Sciroccos or Barnes come to mind.
Good luck with your decision, but, don't worry the ol'.243 will handle Mr. Muley, just dbl. lung him!!!

 

[Happyhunting]

One of the largest mule deer bucks I've ever killed was with a 243. Win. using 80 grain Winchester Pointed soft points. The deer never knew what hit him. I also killed a nice male mountain lion with my 243. Win.

 

[BCHunter]

I appreciate your responses. My buddies and I shoot at least once a month. We have everything from 338 on down to 223. I just really like shooting the 243. I've killed numerous Whitetail with it but this will be my first time on a MD.

My 308 is like an old girlfriend who puts up with all my stuff (had it 20 years). My 243 is like a hot chick that moved in down the street. Sure is fun to play with but you have to pick and choose your place and time carefully.