Best .243 Winchester Ammo
Compare loads for defense, target, competition & more
The .243 Winchester has earned its place as one of America's most versatile rifle cartridges since Winchester introduced it in 1955. Built on a necked-down .308 Winchester case, this cartridge delivers flat trajectories and mild recoil that make it equally effective on varmints and deer-sized game. Hunters appreciate its ability to push lightweight 55-grain bullets past 3,900 fps for predator work while still handling 100-grain projectiles at nearly 3,000 fps for whitetail and mule deer.
What sets the .243 apart from similar cartridges is its proven track record as a youth and beginner hunting rifle. The combination of adequate deer-killing power with manageable recoil has introduced countless new hunters to the sport. Modern bullet technology has only improved its effectiveness—premium 90 to 105-grain hunting bullets now offer the penetration and expansion needed for clean kills on game up to 300 pounds. The cartridge remains widely available, affordable to shoot, and chambered in nearly every bolt-action rifle on the market.
All .243 Winchester Loads
Compare ballistics and prices across 21 products
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
- Exceptionally mild recoil allows younger and smaller-framed shooters to practice without developing flinch
- Flat trajectory with high-BC bullets extends practical shooting range beyond 400 yards
- True dual-purpose capability handles everything from prairie dogs to mule deer with appropriate bullet selection
- Ammunition is available everywhere from rural hardware stores to big-box retailers
- Wide selection of rifles in every price range and action type
Cons
- Marginal for elk and other large game—the light bullets lack the mass for reliable penetration on heavy animals
- Fast-burning barrel life compared to larger cartridges; expect accuracy to degrade after 2,000-3,000 rounds
- Light bullets are more affected by wind at distance than heavier .30 caliber options
- Some states have minimum caliber restrictions that exclude .243 for deer hunting
- Factory ammunition loaded conservatively; handloaders can achieve better performance