For hogs?
I agree that a .30'06 or .308 would be a lot better for hogs than a .243. I
CANNOT agree that a 7.62x39mm cartridge would be better that the .243.
A quick trip to the Remington ammo website shows:
7.62x39: 125 gr PSP bullet, 2362 fps at muzzle, 1552 ft lbs energy
.243: 100 gr PSP bullet, 2960 fps at muzzle, 1945 FPE
Now, I am NOT a disciple of FPE as the be-all and end-all measure of cartridge performance, but it shouldn't be ignored. I will note, however that the Remington PSP load is the best loaded round for sport hunting available in 7.62x39. I dare say that it is easier to make precisely placed shots with ANY .243 than with any AK or SKS type 7.62x39, at any range. Also, the .243 shoots a LOT flatter, extending your useful range quite a distance. Another observation: MOST .243s are fitted with scopes; MOST AKs and SKSs have only open iron sights.
With such modestly powered cartridges, precision placement is the ENTIRE game on hogs.
The Remington website has a very good comparison function for various cartridges. You might want to take a look at:
http://www.remington.com/NR/exeres/...AB18499B6A}&NRQUERYTERMINATOR=1&cookie_test=1
and set up your own comparison.
I mean nothing personal here, but even I have fantasized that my AK or SKS might be "good medicine" for hogs in thick cover - - 10 to 30 rounds to take care of a close range "charge!" Then I realize that, essentially, I'm thinking of "Spray and Pray," and am ashamed . . . .
I like the thought of .243 for whitetail deer, antelope, varmints, and such.
The 7.62x39 is a decent anti-personnel proposition or short range deer round. I don't like the idea of stretching its capability too far, though.
Best,
Johnny