Single shot rifle for hogs, trunk gun.

[Apollo]

I was in Academy today and they had a 308 single shot with a scope for around $220.

The also had the 243 version on sale for about $50 cheaper. I was considering the 243 just because it's cheaper and I don't own anything in that caliber. But then again I like 308 and it tends to make things sit up and take notice. For the record I've already got an AR-10 in 308 but the SOB weighs in at 14 lbs with ammo and a scope.

So which would you get for a cheap hog gun/trunk gun? The .243 or the 308? With the proper bullet both will do the trick but I like the flat trajectory of the 243 and the option to shoot light varmint bullets.



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[Vaquero]

.308
Better ammo selection available and usually much cheaper.

 

[Dawico]

I think the 308 may be a tad abusive in a sporter weight barrel and single shot action. It will be light.

Given the two options, I would go .243.

 

[Apollo]

I think the 308 may be a tad abusive in a sporter weight barrel and single shot action. It will be light.

Given the two options, I would go .243.

That was a very real concern, given the rifle weighs in at only 5.5 lbs. However I feel like a 20" barreled 243 is at least 4" too short to take full advantage of the cartridge. Where as a 20" 308 is in my experience, just right.

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[Dawico]

That was a very real concern, given the rifle weighs in at only 5.5 lbs. However I feel like a 20" barreled 243 is at least 4" too short to take full advantage of the cartridge. Where as a 20" 308 is in my experience, just right.

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Is barrel length really a concern?

The 243 is ~$170. I don't think 4" of barrel is going to be the most limiting factor on being able to take full advantage of the cartridge.

 

[BRD@66]

.308
Better ammo selection available and usually much cheaper.

^ this

 

[Apollo]

Is barrel length really a concern?

The 243 is ~$170. I don't think 4" of barrel is going to be the most limiting factor on being able to take full advantage of the cartridge.

On a cartridge that relies almost entirely on speed to function, I'd say that yes the 100 fps it's losing with the short barrel are a concern.

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[ZX9RCAM]

Is barrel length really a concern?

The 243 is ~$170. I don't think 4" of barrel is going to be the most limiting factor on being able to take full advantage of the cartridge.

4" can make a lot of difference depending on who you talk to....

 

[deemus]

For a hog gun, it won't matter that the 243 is shorter. I have some 55g bullets loaded just for this purpose. Lighter recoil and very accurate. If you were shooting 300 yds, I might have a different opinion. But I would go with the 243. I love mine.

 

[Dawico]

On a cartridge that relies almost entirely on speed to function, I'd say that yes the 100 fps it's losing with the short barrel are a concern.

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Like Deemus stated, until you get to 300 yards or so the loss in velocity is not much of a factor.

But to each their own. If you feel a 20" barrel on a 243 is an issue then why are you even considering it?