243 WIN for elk?

[freakshow10mm]

Muzzle brakes increase noise to the point that it isn't worth the recoil reduction. I'd rather get pounded by the gun than increase the noise.

 

[jim in Anchorage]

I can't argue with the noise,but the OP has a bad neck so you gotta do what you gotta do. I don't like it myself[it came with the gun] but with double ear protection its tolerable

 

[CoRoMo]

Posted by BENELLIMONTE
CoRo'

What bullets do you use?

We'll handload a few different types depending on the rifle. My .270 likes Hornady 130gr. SP. The .25-06 is usually handloaded with 120gr Nosler AccuBonds or Ballistic Tips, and the .30-30 shoots LeverEvolution ammo.

These rifles have taken elk handily and cleanly.
I like the Core-Lokt Ultras in the .270, but they don't group as well as the Hornadys.

 

[surjimmy]

He should do what ever he has to not to use a 243 for Elk hunting.

 

[PT1911]

worried about noise in a hunting rifle? I guess a bang a few decibles lower wouldnt scare the creatures away as promptly...

I know i know.. my poor ears...

 

[Capt. NW]

My brother killed a nice 6x6 with his 270 win 130gr. hornady ammo. he has also kill some nice mule deer out to 450 years with the same gun. I was with him on his hunts all the game that he hit was in the hart and the game when maybe 20 yeards after being hit. My brother is big on hitting the bullseye and dosen't like a lot of kick that might throw his shot.

 

[usmc1371]

I gather the OP has a few elk hunts under his belt so I think as long as he keeps a cool head and makes a good shot eathier rifle will work. I wouldn't recomend a rifle that light for a brand new first year elk hunter under most circumstances just for the fact that a bad shot on an elk with any rifle makes for a long track but a bad shot with a much lighter round could mean a long track with no blood to fallow. I like the Pachmayr Decelerator Recoil Pad I have one on my 375 and it is great. I have seen a cow elk killed with a 243 with remy corlocks with a behind the sholder shot maybe 100yds, elk ran about 100yds and fell over, pretty much like they do when you hit the same spot with 300 win mag.

 

[Dr_2_B]

I think no

 

[Faster Daddy!]

I have taken several Elk (cows and bulls) with the following calibers 243, 30-06, 270 WSM and 300 WSM. The first cow was with a 243. The shot was about 100 yds. I fired the first shot and the cow appeared as if it had not been hit. I fired a second and the cow dropped in it's tracks. Upon closer inspection the first shot was right on target and the second shot was less than 2 inches from the first. Shot placement is everything and the 243 worked for me on my first Elk. However, Elk are extremely strong animals and I now would recomend nothing less than a 270 cal bullet (160gr Nosler Partition) or preferably LARGER. The only time the larger calibers are going to be felt are at the range. During the hunt, in the heat of the moment, you are going to tell your buddies you thought you were shooting a 22. I don't care if your shooting a 338 or 416 you will not remember the recoil. The most painful part of Elk hunting is drawing the tag!

 

[wankerjake]

The most painful part of Elk hunting is drawing the tag!

At least in AZ anyway

 

[Faster Daddy!]

Agree with you wankerjake.

 

[Grizfire]

I agree with the others about adding accessories to help dampen the recoil, such as a butt pad, or shooting a heavier rifle/add weight. I would also recommend talking to your doctor about neck strengthening exercises.