I've owned and shot a .243 on a regular basis for the last 30 years or so. Mine is Ruger M-77, by the way. For those who don't know, the .243 is a necked-down .308 cartridge. I've had great luck with it on various game, from woodchucks to deer. I've killed numerous deer with it over the years, using the standard factory (100 grain JSP) ammo. I use the same round for woodchucks as for deer, so that I have become very confident with the rifle. I've taken deer out to 450 yards with it and woodchucks and coyotes a bit further even. It's a great all-around gun and certainly not just a kid's or women's gun. Shot placement, on deer, is obviously critical. I have had my best performance with Federal Premium ammo with this particular gun. All rifles will have a particular round they happen to "like", as most know. Shoot many brands of ammo before choosing. -Jim