i own a Remington 700 varmit rifle with a heavy barrel. i reload all my rifle ammo and use Hornady 87 grain bullets to load for my 243. since this rifle is used only for groundhogs the 87 grain hollow points work really well. it could be used for deer but since it is on the heavy side i use my 06 for deer. i load 36 grains of IMR 3031 with the 87 grain bullet and if im having a good day it will punch touching holes at 100 yards. im 71 years old so thats why i say if im having a good day. if you reload this is the best way to find what shoots best out of your rifle. as far as recoil, the difference between 80 and 100 grain bullets should not be that noticable unless this rifle is used by a young shooter.