I have held onto a spare scope for several years and finally decided its time to get a second rifle. My current gun is a .308 browning stainless stalker with a2.5x10x42 scope. The extra scope is about 5-7 yrs old and is a Burris Signature Series. At the time, the scope was $400 or a little less, so it is a quality piece, i believe.

Anyway, I hunt deer in Florida. Don't really travel, though i may at some point. Perhaps Elk or larger deer in states that grow hefty bucks (unlike Fl). I have a 6 yr old daughter who is beginning to show an interest in hunting, so i thought a .243 would be a good second gun b/c she could use it when the age/time is right. I believe this is the most popular deer catridge for smaller kids...Also, i figure if i travel, the 308 is large enough to handle most animals, so it seems less logical to get a larger gun as a second.

However, with that said, I am here b/c i am not sure and would apprec your input. Pls advise.
thx

Actually I think I'd opt for the 7mm-08. Same action, and platform.Most guns chambered in .243 will also be available in 7mm-08. The difference in recoil shouldnt be much at all, and the 7mm-08 is a more versatile round.

the 243 is not to forgiving a round. Better shot good.

I'd recomend the 6.5x55 Swede. I belive a few makersstill make them (CZ, Ruger?). Factory ammo isn't the most common,but you should be able to find it easily enough. Super light recoil. With quality bullets, I wouldn't hesitate to take it in the bush after moose, actuallymy dad carried it this year with 140 grain Winchester's. I've watched this round drop two deer in their tracks. I highly recommend it. (I believe Rebel,James Band a few others will too )

I agree with Kona - the 6.5X55 swede is an excellent choice. It is a real deer stopper and great on foxes and coyotes. That would be my choice for a "youngun".

Interesting comments so far, i thought the 243 was the standard, but perhaps not. Other comments appreciated.

Look at the Browning A-Bolt Micro Hunter in 7mm/08.Compact enough for smaller framed hunters and one of the best rifles I ever shot

10-4, Good Buddy!

Did this same thing 3 years ago and I went with a Remington Model 7 Youth .260. It was between the 7mm-08 and the 260. They are practically the same but the .260 has about 1.5-2 pounds less recoil than the 7mm-08. I would not go with the .243, like said before it is not very forgiving. I have taken 3 and my wife 1 with the 260 and have yet to have one take a step. My son killed one on the 1st with my nephews 7mm-08 and dropped it in it's tracks. Good Luck

Any of the mentioned catridges would be good, even the .243, it's dropped plenty of deer. Just make sure she can shoot good before taking her hunting, and find a gun that fits her. Good luck.