You know what I really think? age makes no difference. If a .243 kills a deer and is plenty of gun for a 11-12 yr old. I think at age 55 that same .243 is going to kill a deer just the same. There is most likely always a place in the gun rack for a .243.

All I'm saying is dont buy a .243 for a beginner rifle, just buy a .243 for what it is...a great standard caliber.