what is a good bullet weight for the .243? my rifle is the remington 700 vls. I have treid 58 gr. vmax's, they group great, and leave a nasty entrance wound. The problem is that up to 250yds. they are ok, but at 300 and 350 they drop off rapidly, { 350 digs dirt} I was told that a heavier bullet would stabilize better, and that the .243 should be able to reach 400yds easy. I would like something heavy enough for deer, and to target shoot at 200 to 400 yds. any help would be greatful.

Seems to me you'd be better off with a 95 or 100 gr. bullet for deer, and for better ballistic coefficient.

I guess I gave the wrong impression, I don't load the vmax for deer, it was for coyotes and target shooting. I was just thinking that if I go with a heavier bullet I could use it on deer.

Sierra Game King 100gr

If you are a accuracy nut the .243 is probly a 1 in 8 twist and it will do better with a 90 grain or less bullet I garantee it! I have wore out several .243 barrels over the years and a nosler partition will knock um dead!

Rebel hog has a good suggestion. I use a slightly different bullet, the hornady 100 grain BTSP and it does a number on deer. I took a whitetail doe with this very load 2 years ago. She didnt step off more than 15 feet. EJ

From what I've heard the 85 gr Sierra is a real performer. I haven't loaded for my 243 yet but I imagine I'll be staying with the 100 gr hornady's.

I agree. I am continually amazed at how that bullet drops deer.

Might give the 95gr. Ballistic Silvertip a try.

Is a 243 a good round for head shots