Which is more accurate .243 or .308

[Cobra7]

In Yall's opinion which caliber is more accurate on average .243 or .308?

[Redhawk1]

In Yall's opinion which caliber is more accurate on average .243 or .308?

It all comes down to the shooter and the right load for each. Both are very accurate and I don't think one is more accurate than the other.  

[Nightrain52]

What Redhawk1 said. They are both very easy cartridges to load for most of the time with lots of bullet choices to choose from. If you are going to do much varmint hunting I would go with the 243. The 308 has a little more recoil.

[Savage .250]

Accuracy is a subjective term.  what might be "accurate" to some does
  not meet expectations of others.  If it looks go to you, then it must be good.
   Redhawk1 is on target with his assessment. For me the most important factor is the ...shooter.  
   Give 10 guys the same set-up (gun,shells,cal and distance) at a given rifle range and  i`ll bet you`ll get 10 different results.  
  The "results" being their accuracy, IMO.

[Lone Star]

For the sport shooter, the inherent differences in accuracy between the two are minimal.  The .243 is easier to shoot well due to lighter recoil.  The .308 has an outstanding record for long range accuracy (600-1000 yards) in competition.  If I wanted to target or varmint shoot at ranges under 500 yards, I'd use my .243.  If I wanted to shoot targets at 600+ yards, the .308 hands down.  

If you are not a hunter, then choose the .243.  If you want the highest accuracy, choose a target/varmint type rifle, or have one built.  The rifle has far more to do with the potential accuracy than these two catridges do.  Even the best shooter in the world can't make a poorly-bedded rifle with a mediocre barrel shoot well.   :roll:

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[Ron T.]

I pretty much agree with what Lone Star wrote... except possibly the ranges he suggested.

If I were shooting at targets or varmints on windless or fairly calm days under 350 yards, I'd choose the .243 Winchester (a .308 Win. cartridge case necked down to .24 caliber) cartridge with premium hunting, varmint or target bullets because it's recoil is less due to shooting lighter bullets thus making it a bit easier to shoot somewhat more accurately for most shooters.

On windy days or ranges beyond 300-350 yards, I'd choose the .308 Winchester cartridge with premium, boat-tail hunting or target (benchrest) bullets because it's heavier bullet will "buck" the wind better and will tend to be a bit more consistent as to bullet drop, bullet strike & bullet deflection (due to crosswinds) as the range increases.

Jus' my 2¢ worth... other's opinions may differ...    :wink:


Strength & Honor...

Ron T.