new .243

[powder monkey]

Hi guys,I just bought a new cz American 550 .243.Just wondering about loads to start out with.I never had a .243 before.Anyone know about any fmj loads for coyotes.I will also be using it for deer.
thank-you in advance.

 

[todbartell]

I wouldnt suggest FMJ bullets for hunting, its illegal in some provinces even.

I can however suggest you try a lighter bullet designed for varmints. Ive seen the 80 gr Nosler BT in action and it doesnt leave too messy of an exit hole from what Ive seen.

Varget, RL15, 4064, 4350, all should work for varmint loads, and something slower burninglike 4350, 4831, RL19, RL22, etc would be better suited for 95-105 gr loads for deer.

Actually if I was going to use the 243 Winchester for deer, Id load the 85 gr Barnes TSX-bt...
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[shadow]

243 loads

Powder Monkey

I had great success with my 243 and great (unbelievable) accuracy using Sierra 85 Grain HPBT, remington brass, federal 210M (match) primers and IMR 4350. All was well within published data and would easily put 5 shots into 5/8 inch at 100 yards at in my rifle and would do the same at 200. Used this for paper, varmints and two whitetails,as the bullet is made for thin skinned game.

Good Luck, it's a great cartridge.

Shadow

 

[Lefty Dick]

Got a couple of buddies using the 65gr. V-max's and Varget in their 243Win's for coyotes, they get waesome accuracy, and they seem to not complain too much about pelt damage.

 

[Noel]

Although it is being used in a 6mm, I am trying out the 55gr Ballistic tips. they sure zip right along (3900) and are shooting very well too. I am using cci 250's and H414. It may be worth a try in your rifle for the yotes.

Ten years ago when I was packing a 243, a friend loaded me up with some 90gr Speers. They are fairly volent and make some big holes in Deer, as do the105gr Speer Hot cor but they are very accurate.
The 100gr grand slams work quite well as far as wieght retention.
If I was packing a 243, I would be going with a Partition bullet, as heavy as they come.