Dave, you are going to have around 10 ft. lbs. of recoil w/the .243 vs. about 17 ft. lbs. w/ the .270 Win. and about 19 ft. lbs. of recoil w/ the .270 WSM. Here is a comprehensive chart for you to compare most calibers. The address is www.chuckhawks.com/recoil_table_exp.htm Either the .270 Win. or the .270 WSM will make you a fine deer hunting rifle. Good luck!