I used to shoot a 30-30 (30 years ago), then I went to a 30-06 with a heavy bullet for about 20 years. Now, for the last 5 years, I've been shooting the 243. It's lightweight, accurate, and dependable. I have extreme confidence in my shots and, so far, have never had a deer go more than about 10 yards after I shoot.

Bottom line, while it's a great cartridge, you have to shoot something that you are confident with and you are accurate with. The 243 generally weighs less (the rifle, not the bullet), has less recoil, and therefore inspires more confidence. There are other great cartridges and rifles out there, but the 243 wouldn't be a bad choice.

A lot of folks say that it is a youth or ladies cartridge. Okay, fine. I'm 46, 6'3", 220 pounds, spent 20 years in the Marine Corps infantry, and it's my favorite deer rifle. So, line me up with the ladies and kids.