i used to use a 243 winchester but i needed something with more power! i killed a deer about 2 years ago with my cousins 243 we could hardly find any blood it was a ok shot its a good lil fella gun mighty small though....i moved on to a 308 wood model love that gun! i was 10 when i shot my first deer now im 12 and i have a 308 i like my 308 more but you know i wouldnt switch again but its a good lil gun it just doesnt leave much blood but it kicks cause it has a short barrel depends what you like.........my opion.......no......but thats my opion u like 243 u buy it!