Question about my Tikka .243, get a larger caliber instead?

[caddis75]

Dont shoot a deer in the shoulder with it, they are not designed for extreme penetration but do a lot of damage for a little bullet. I was impressed enough with the eldx 90g 243bullet that I’d use it again if I had to. 6 of the 7 deer we shot with it were down in less than 10 yards.

Lawnboi, If you pm me, then I guess I can pm you back. I am interested in what you offered though.

 

[Lawnboi]

Lawnboi, If you pm me, then I guess I can pm you back. I am interested in what you offered though.

Got it, I’ll message you tomorrow when I get home and I can inventory what I have left over,stuck at work currently.

 

[caddis75]

Got it, I’ll message you tomorrow when I get home and I can inventory what I have left over,stuck at work currently.

Thanks, no rush, range closed and the whole stat is shut down. Be safe.

 

[pirogue]

Thank you all for your repiive
2. For varmints, this summer is there particular ammo you recommend?

Thank you all, your expertise is much appreciated.

I like the way Hornady Vmax 75g performs in my Tikka .243

 

[ElkArcher918]

caddis75, as a CO resident who hunts multiple Western states I would recommend a .270 or 30/06 to effectively cover most of your planned future hunts for antelope, deer, and elk (I prefer the 06 with a quality 165 bullet for elk but the .270 with good ammo and placement will get the job done). Personally, I limit my Western hunts with the .243 to coyotes and antelope. A decent scope like a Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40 will treat you well without breaking the bank. Once you hunt the West you'll be addicted.

 

[thinhorn_AK]

Keep that 243 for your deer hunting and when the opportunity to head west and get an elk comes, get yourself a new gun.

 

[TREE ‘EM]

Shoot varmints with whatever ammo you decide to use for big game. That will help you learn your trajectory.

 

[caddis75]

Man, you guys are awesome. So helpful. Here is my plan:
1. Keep the .243 and shoot the heck out of it this summer. If I have time I'll shoot both deer and varmint loads, if not, I'll just shoot the deer loads you all recommended.
2. I'll look at the Leopold scope recommended above
3. Save up for a Western big-game gun for either the 2021 or 2022 season.

Thank you all, Very much appreciate the advice given. I hope you all are staying safe!