North Texan

I would bet that the 30-30 has killed more deer than any other cartridge, also. I have one with iron sights I used to take my first deer. The deer was dead before it ever hit the ground.

Dale/PA

Do you know just how far 550 yds is? Way to far to be shooting at a deer with a.243. Thats all i use and I hate shooting over 200. Seem to me someone is telling some tall tales but then I wasnt there.

Leafrivermac

This old fool also prefers a 30-30 over a 243. I'm sure the 243 is okey in some situations, but I have found it to not take the brush well. I often hunt with a 270 (not a good brush gun either), but when in the thick I opt for the 30/30. I would say that the 30/30 has definatley taken more deer, if for no other reason than it's popularity and the length of time it's been around.
If I could only keep one rifle to put meat on the table it would be my 30/30. I traded my 243 last yr for another 336 Marlin 30/30. My 06 and 270 are good for way out there and my 30/30 is enough gun for close places even tho I know it is good for 150 yds.
So imo the old guy was right and you might stand to learn something from him.

FlDeerman

Another old fool for the 30-30.Close range heavy brush can't be beat.

zrexpilot

Give me a brake ! The .243 has more velocity and eneregy at 500 yds than the 30-30 does at 200. The .243 will blast way bigger holes in deer than the .30-30, no matter what yardage. Not knocking the .30-30, I used one for years and want another, but it's not better.
People, there is no such thing as a brush gun, all bullets are deflected off branches or brush.

uncle matt

I second 1865's reply to this post.

So, Leftmehangin.......................how's that foot tasting?

Uncle Matt (in IL)

Buckmasterflex

I think I would have to go with my trusty 30-30. I have never had a deer go more than 10 yards with it. Where I hunt a 30-30 is the better gun. But there was a time this year I wish I would have had a 7mm or something that would reach out and grab this huge deer I saw at about 400 yards..... But in my opinion I think the 30-30 is better..

FroMan

30-30 is better at short range. I personally would rather use a 30-30 for deer over a 243.

I won't hunt deer with a .243 at all. I think it's too light. I've heard of too many people losing deer after shooting them with a .243.

I use a 30-06, dad uses a 300 mag or a .308.

jdreddish

Well, teach em how to shoot. I have shot more deer w/ a .243 than I can count. NEVER Ever come close to losing one.

Slamfire

I guess I've used some kind of 6mm on at least 40 deer, I'm not knockin' its ability. But where I'm livin' now, a slick little lever action carbine is better'n any thing a .243 is chambered in, 'cept maybe a Savage 99, which is harder to find.