A friend and I were recently discussing which caliber rifles to start our kids out on for deer.We both have sons who are 10 years old and will be able to tote guns soon.

I mentioned that I thought a 243 would be a great gun for deer. His reponse was that he has heard way too many "horror stories" about deer running off when hit solidly with a 243. He seems to think the 308 would be a much better choice for his son's first rifle.

Admittedly, neither of us has much first hand knowledge of the 243. My buddy maintains that the 308 is the best choice and that the recoil should not be a problem because he read on a chart somewhere that the 308 recoil is so much less than the 30-06. I've owned and shot a 308 Mod. 99 for years, and while I agree the recoil is less than any '06 I've ever fired, I think it still might be too much for a kid who hasn't "worked up to it."

Obviously the 308 is a more universal caliber, but is there any problem with the 243 on deer? Assuming that range is reasonable and placement is good I believe a 95 grain bullet fired at 243 velocity would put down an average deer pretty quick-like.

I'm considering getting my son a 243, then letting him graduate to the 308 in a few years.

My partner wants to get his son a 308 to hunt with next year (he will be 10). His son is considerably smaller and lighter in frame than mine. Both kids are experienced shooters with a 22 and loaded down muzzle-loader.

Any thoughts either way? Input appreciated!