I was talking with a guy who was convinced that 1200 ft/lbs was the absolute minimum for a "humane” kill for a deer. Currently I’m looking to buy a .243, which sparked the conversation as we discussed the different grain bullets that can be used with a .243
What is your opinion?
Also, given the opportunity, which shot would you take with a gun the shoulder or the double lung?


"This year will go down in history. For the first time, a civilized nation has full gun registration. Our streets will be safer, our police more efficient, and the world will follow our lead into the future!"----Adolph Hitler 1935

Most articles I've read claim 1000 is the minimum number. A quality bullet placed through the lungs will always kill if it meets this energy number. Of course, many people like to be on the safe side and use higher energy.

Hunting is a right, treat it like a priviledge - respect nature

I have never used a .243 so I can not comment on what grain or style of bullet you should use, but a double lung will take a deer out, if you know your gun has the power to do it a broadside in the shoulder will take them out also, they do not run with both shouders broke and usually both lungs are blown also, I still prefer a double lung shot because it is a garuanteed humane kill and you waste less meat.

The Tazman aka Martin Price
Founder and President of
Virginia Disabled Outdoorsmen Club

I have killed a &quot;few&quot; deer over the years with a .243...through the ft/lbs theory out the window! A good bullet and shot placement works every time. I like a heart/lung shot myself...<img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle>

Hunt Safe!

Jack

Shot placement is the key, many weapons will kill a derr with proper placement and range of that weapon. I aim H/L, less chance of deflect, good blood trail and minimal to zero meat loss.

I used a 243 for a couple of seasons and found that the 243 worked well on deer out to 300 yards or so.I used 95gr partitions in handloads and used only lung shots.

I have shot a .243 and currently shoot a .270. It all depends on how much you practice. Personally, I shoot year around and am very comfortable with my gun. Give or take a few, around 100 yards is a head shot for me. They don't take a step and you lose zero meat. If you are not confident in your gun or your shot, double lung is the way to go. .243 is plenty of power for deer.

RYAN SMITH

Thanks for the input!
I currently use a 270. It does a great job at a great distance. I am interested in the 243 for plinking but want it to be big enough if the wife wants to hunt or when and if future kids come into the picture. Basically I’m looking for the “all around” family gun!

&quot;This year will go down in history. For the first time, a civilized nation has full gun registration. Our streets will be safer, our police more efficient, and the world will follow our lead into the future!&quot;----Adolph Hitler 1935

I always was told 600ft/lbs. I know it seems low but think about the pistols you take deer with.

Guns cause crime, like flies cause garbage.

I believe ft. lbs. required depends on bullet size. For instance, a 45 cal 405 gr. bullet with only 300 lbs of energy should kill most deer rather quickly if it hits them in the chest b/c it will penetrate deeply enough to take out both lungs, and leaves a large wound channel for blood loss.

I wouldn't worry about it! I've never fired a 243, but they make great deer rifles. You definately have enough gun.

&quot;1200 lbs.&quot;...he must be hunting moose