Why the .243 Winchester is My Top Varminting round
- Joshua Shepherd
- Jan 29
- 3 min read
What is the best varminting round? A question as old as the practice itself, yet there has never been a definitive answer. I personally choose the glorious 243 win. Here's why.
What is a Varmint Round?
Lets first start off with what actually makes a varmint round. To give it a short and sweet answer (that doesn't get too many puritans up in knots) a varmint round is a small, high velocity round that was specifically designed to take out small to medium sized game. There are hundreds of examples out there, the .223, the 22-250 and even the speedy 17 HMR. Basically any round that's travelling so fast that the target doesn't know its been hit.
The Perfect Balance of Power, Precision and Versatility
The .243 Winchester cartridge offers a unique combination of everything a man needs. Super fast speeds, a bucketload of power and so little recoil you could shoot her from the hip . It uses lightweight bullets, typically between 55 and 105 grains, at high speeds. This results in a flat trajectory, which is crucial when aiming at small targets over varying distances. The flat trajectory reduces the need for complex holdovers, making shots more straightforward and increasing the chances of a clean hit.
For instance, when hunting jackals, who sniff you from miles away, I hardly need any holdover, allowing for a quick, effective, and ethical shot.
Manageable Recoil for Better Follow-Up Shots
One of the biggest advantages of the .243 is its low recoil. Compared to larger calibres like the 22-250 or .308, the .243 produces significantly less kick. This makes it easier to stay on target for follow-up shots, which is often necessary when hunting multiple varmints in quick succession.
Low recoil is advantageous for us as varminters, especially when we might fire between 20 to 50 shots in a night. Higher recoil can be tough on the shoulder, leaving you uncomfortable and eager to call it a night. Just ask Brad about his guns that kick like a mule.
Versatility And Variety
The .243 Winchester is not limited to just one type of varmint. Its versatility allows it to handle a wide range of pests, from Jackal and Rooikatte to smaller animals like Springhaase and Hares. This flexibility means you don’t need multiple rifles or calibres for different targets. This to me is widely caused by the truckload of different grains and bullet types you can get. Some examples of my personal used loads
Nosler Varmageddon 55 grain
Hornady V-max 65 grain
Hornady V-max 75 grain
Norma oryx 100 grain
Remington Core- Lokt 100 grain
They all have their own versatility, allowing me to swap from species to species effectively allowing for ethical takedowns.
Maintenance and Rifle Options
The .243 Winchester is a staple for most companies out there, Howa, Tikka, Sako you name it, they have a .243. This variety means hunters can choose a rifle that fits their style and budget. Additionally, rifles chambered in .243 are generally easy to maintain, with parts and accessories readily available.
Regular maintenance ensures consistent accuracy and reliability, which are critical for successful varmint hunting.
Conclusion: Why the .243 Calibre Stands Out
The .243 calibre strikes a balance that few other cartridges can match. It offers the power needed for humane kills, the precision required for small targets, and the low recoil that keeps hunters comfortable and accurate. Its versatility across different varmint species and the availability of ammunition make it a practical choice for many hunters. All in all, these are just opinions. Go out and try any rifles you are thinking of getting, make your own opinions. Stay Fierce, stay on target and most importantly stay free!
-Joshua Shepherd, Founder and all round cool guy
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