The Federal Vital-Shok .243 Winchester pairs a 100-grain Nosler Partition bullet with Federal's premium brass at 2850 feet per second, generating 1803 foot-pounds of muzzle energy. The Partition's dual-core design—invented in 1948—remains one of the most respected hunting bullet constructions ever developed. A solid partition wall separates the front and rear lead cores, allowing the front to expand while the rear drives through for guaranteed penetration.

The Nosler Partition's reputation comes from decades of field performance. The front core mushrooms on impact, creating a wide wound channel, while the protected rear core maintains momentum. This design reliably penetrates through heavy bone and muscle, even on steep quartering angles where lesser bullets might deflect or fragment. The 100-grain weight maximizes sectional density in .243, giving this combination serious punch for the caliber.

This load suits hunters pursuing deer, antelope, and black bear where deep penetration matters more than explosive expansion. The heavier bullet weight makes it particularly effective for shots requiring penetration through the shoulder or when game isn't perfectly broadside. Experienced hunters who trust the Partition for larger calibers will find this .243 load brings that same confidence to situations where reduced recoil or a youth rifle is needed.