RE: Do I get a .243 or a 30/30?
 

Id pick the .243. Fast , flat, no recoil, super accurate, deadly, whats not to like.

RE: Do I get a .243 or a 30/30?
 

come on now, he said maybe both.. Now we all know you never pass a chance at getting two. That being said, if your hunting where 150+yards are possible, you will need the .243. However if you are hunting thick brush or timber, you will love a nice smooth lever action.

RE: Do I get a .243 or a 30/30?
 

.243

RE: Do I get a .243 or a 30/30?
 

7mm-08, 243 then 30-30. All capable but the 30-30 does have range limitations. I don't get more than a 100 yard shots where I hunt so all 3 fit my application. I have heard too much positive chatter on the 7mm-08 and 243on various boards to ignore any longer. I must buy both very soon.

RE: Do I get a .243 or a 30/30?
 

For a youngster that .243 will shoot much easier than the .30-30. The .30-30 in lever action will bea very light rifle that will kick hard. The .243 will be a heavier rifle and will be easier to shoot as a result.

On the other hand, if your deer hunting is primarily in deep woods with snap shots and short range, a lever action .30-30 may be more appropriate in spite of the heavier recoil.

Be advised I'm referring to felt recoil, which is all that really matters. Shoot a Winchester .300 Magnum in a 20 LBS rifle and it would probably shoot easier than a .243 in a 7 LBS rifle.

RE: Do I get a .243 or a 30/30?
 

For now .243 or .260 or 7mm-08

RE: Do I get a .243 or a 30/30?
 

As much as I love 30-30 I would have to say that if you're only looking for one rifle, then you would probably be better suited with the .243, or like some others have suggested the 7mm-08. Both are awesome deer-killing machines, have low felt recoil and should be super accurate in any platform. On the other hand, if you know without a doubt that all shots will stay inside 200 yards or so you would be well suited with the 30-30.

If you're gonna pick the 30-30, Hornady's 160gr LEVERevolution loads have been shooting tight groups in just about everything I've seen them fired out of. they are a pointed bullet that gives you a better trajectory and can still be used in the tubular magazines due to having a soft "rubbery" tip. I shoot them out of my Marlin and know a few others who do in various rifles as well.