Welcome to the forum bucCrzy.
The 243 is a good cartridge to start with and you will be able to use it this year for varmints.
Usually bullet weights of 100 grs are used for deer and the lighter 80 grs or so for varmints.
The Savage an ok entry level rifle. I favor it over the Rem.
I have been hunting deer since 1953 and got my first 243 in 1957.
I don't shoot at game over 300 yds. Try to get closer.
Last edited by Savage_99; 01-21-2013 at 06:43 PM.