Buying a new bolt action .223 - Page 2

alex0535 · February 1, 2013, 09:09 PM

For me it would come down to what I planned to do with the rifle.

Target rifle, I would probably take the marlin for the heavy barrel. Would also choose the heavier barrel if I planned to hunt prairie dogs.

For a varmint/hunting setup, I would want the lighter barreled savage.

stubbicatt · February 4, 2013, 09:22 AM

I think you will be happy with the 243. It is an accurate cartridge overall, and with handload recipes it really likes, it is a very accurate cartridge. One of the neat things you might do if you don't presently handload is to try it for yourself. For a de minimis price you can buy a Lee Loader and put together a handful of cartridges for your recreational shooting.

bazookajeff89 · February 4, 2013, 03:56 PM

I bought my 243 T3 lite a few weeks ago, and man can that thing shoot. It's not quite sighted in yet so it hits about 2 feet off the target.....but it hits 2 feet off the target with incredible consistency

Murauder · February 9, 2013, 02:04 PM

Just thought id say i went with the ruger american in 243. It looks to be a good little rifle. I'll let yall know after my scope and mounts come in and get it out to the range

February 1, 2013, 09:09 PM	#26
alex0535 Senior Member Join Date: November 4, 2012 Location: Georgia Posts: 615	For me it would come down to what I planned to do with the rifle. Target rifle, I would probably take the marlin for the heavy barrel. Would also choose the heavier barrel if I planned to hunt prairie dogs. For a varmint/hunting setup, I would want the lighter barreled savage.

February 4, 2013, 09:22 AM	#27
stubbicatt Senior Member Join Date: September 15, 2007 Posts: 776	I think you will be happy with the 243. It is an accurate cartridge overall, and with handload recipes it really likes, it is a very accurate cartridge. One of the neat things you might do if you don't presently handload is to try it for yourself. For a de minimis price you can buy a Lee Loader and put together a handful of cartridges for your recreational shooting.

February 4, 2013, 03:56 PM	#28
bazookajeff89 Member Join Date: January 14, 2013 Location: Great Falls, MT Posts: 47	I bought my 243 T3 lite a few weeks ago, and man can that thing shoot. It's not quite sighted in yet so it hits about 2 feet off the target.....but it hits 2 feet off the target with incredible consistency

February 9, 2013, 02:04 PM	#29
Murauder Member Join Date: January 8, 2013 Posts: 26	Just thought id say i went with the ruger american in 243. It looks to be a good little rifle. I'll let yall know after my scope and mounts come in and get it out to the range