cheygriz
member
Animals as small as deer don't require big bullets. I like the .243, but I like the 6MM Remington even better.
The rifle is a Ruger #1 Light Sporter. I like it because it is short and easy to handle in a tree stand, I like the discipline imposed by a single shot rifle, and it’s different from the rifles used by hunting buddies!
It has served me well and if I can continue to use it without discomfort that would be great. It may be time time to learn to reload rifle cartridges after 20 years of reloading handgun cartridges. I use a Dillon 550, so I will consult with Dillon and get their recommendations.
Thank you for the advice.
You may want to just buy a single stage kit if you have the space.
I have a progressive I use for 9mm, but I load all my rifle on a single stage, just due to limited number of rounds I make at a shot
You can get the "deluxe" version of the lee dies that has the collet neck sizer as part of it....I actually just gave one of those sets away a few months ago.I would suggest the Rockchucker and Lee Pacesetter dies. Last I knew, Lee has the neck-sizer die for .270 sold separately. The factory crimp die is included in the set. As with any other opinion, the next guy's mileage may vary.
You can get the "deluxe" version of the lee dies that has the collet neck sizer as part of it....I actually just gave one of those sets away a few months ago.
But, personally, If you reload; get some 100-120gr bullets for your .270, and some H4895 and load 40-45gr to get 2,800-3,000fps. This will give recoil identical to a.243/.257 but kills just as good as your current.270 loads. If you don’t reload, Remington makes an excellent “Reduced Recoil” load that will tame your .270.
But really? The whole deal about the .270 is it recoils less than the ‘06. I don’t find the .270 to recoil that much more than a .243/.257.
If recoil is that big of a deal, I suggest a good .223 with a fast twist barrel and a 60-70gr soft point bullet. I actually have had better on-game performance from the .22’s than the .243. The Ruger American Predator in .223 w1/9” twist with the Hornady 60gr Spt comes to mind. The deer in my avatar fell to a Hornady 60gr Spt (MidwayUSA blem!) at ~2,900fps Christmas Day ‘17 fired from my Rem Mod-7. Shot it out my kitchen window at a lased 141yds.
Most important is 1. Shot placement 2. Shot placement 3. Shot placement. If recoil reduction helps, do it! How, is your decision.
But, I suspect you are just trying to justify a new rifle. BTDT!
IIf you have a classic nostalgia appreciation, the Roberts is the easy choice. I would pick a rifle with classic lines, great wood and a solid scope regardless of your choice.
I really think that 243 is the more lethal round for several reasons. 243 has flatter trajectory and less kick for better shot placement. 243 has higher SD. 243 has a great track record too.I have used a .270 Winchester on whitetail deer for years with great success. One - shot kills have been the rule. Shoulder arthritis is becoming significantly worse. I did not really enjoy checking my .270’s sights a few days ago. I hate to admit recoil sensitivity, but I’m considering switching to either a .243 or a Bob. Most shots will be taken within 150 yards; none over 300 yards at the extreme.
So those of you who have taken whitetails with both the .243 and the .257 Roberts, which would you recommend?
Thanks for your insights.