I would choose the 30-30 as well.. But i am impartial to them concidering that is all the rifle i have hunted with for the last 34 years with. i do choose the marlin over the winchesters anyday though.. The 243 does have more range and is flatter shooting so it would also depend on the kind of are you are hunting in as well.. Wide open vurses woods and brush.. Also if it is so far away I need a tri-pod to help hold the rifle steady why am I shooting at it?