.243 Winchester vs .308 Winchester
Studying the .243 Winchester vs .308 Winchester demonstrates two popular hunting cartridges with different approaches to terminal ballistics and game applications. The .308 Winchester (150gr Extreme Point at 2820 fps) delivers significantly higher energy, maintaining 2433 ft-lbs at 50 yards compared to the .243 Winchester's (95gr Extreme Point at 3100 fps) 1855 ft-lbs. Both cartridges demonstrate substantial penetration for hunting applications, with the .243 Winchester reaching 41.9-42.3 inches and the .308 Winchester achieving 22.5-22.7 inches, both well beyond defensive requirements. The recoil comparison favors the .243 Winchester, generating 13.19 ft-lbs of recoil energy versus the .308's 22.2 ft-lbs. Despite the .243's higher muzzle velocity, the .308's heavier bullet provides superior energy retention, making it more suitable for larger game where the .243 might be marginal. Remember that performance varies considerably with different ammunition selections and firearm platforms, so these figures represent typical hunting loadings rather than definitive performance benchmarks.
Ammunition Parameters
.243 Winchester Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.308 Winchester Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.243 Winchester vs .308 Winchester Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .243 Winchester and .308 Winchester.
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.243 Winchester vs .308 Winchester Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .243 Winchester and .308 Winchester.
.243 Winchester vs .308 Winchester Bullet Penetration
Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .243 Winchester and .308 Winchester at self-defense distances.
Self-Defense Ammunition Penetration
Notes:
- FBI standard for optimal penetration is 12-18 inches in 10% ballistics gel
- Our penetration data is calculated using mathematical models based on sectional density, velocity, and expansion factors. While not actual gel tests, our calculations have been validated against manufacturer test data and provide reliable estimates for comparison purposes.
- Actual results may vary depending on clothing barriers and other factors
.243 Winchester vs .308 Winchester Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .243 Winchester and .308 Winchester.
.243 Winchester Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
.308 Winchester Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
Notes:
- Recoil calculations based on bullet weight, velocity, powder charge, and firearm weight
- Recoil energy indicates the felt force when firing the weapon
- Recoil impulse represents momentum transfer during firing
- Actual felt recoil can vary based on grip, stance, and firearm design
.243 Winchester vs .308 Winchester Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 500 yards for .243 Winchester and .308 Winchester.
.243 Winchester vs .308 Winchester Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .243 Winchester and .308 Winchester.