ORIGINAL: jeepkid
ORIGINAL: kelbro
I never understood the 'why' for an AI .243. The .243 is plenty fast. They shoot up to 100gr bullets over 3000fps for excellent killing power. I think that the powder manufacturers and the barrel makers are the only ones that see any REAL benefit from a .243 AI.
The same reason people buy Ultra Mags and Short Mags, the standard cartridges have done the job just fine, but some people just want something a little different.
It's good if one handloads. A little bit better performance is possible, coupled with the potential for improved accuracy and long case life. The handloader that rechambers a .243 to a .243 AI is wiser than the guy who insists that the .300 RUM is necessary for hunting white-tailed deer in the woods and hills of Pennsylvania. Just my opinion.
Mike