.243 or 22-250?

[KE5MUJ]

I am in the market for an inexpensive lightweight small game hunting rifle (including varmints). The Howa m1500 has caught my eye so I am pretty sure i am gonna grab one. Question is what caliber choice between the 22-250 or 243?

From what I can see the 243 might be the better choice. My range will be within 500 yds.

 

[darrenk75b]

Re: .243 or 22-250?

I'm a big fan of the .243, so that's what I'd choose. The Howa is a good choice as well.

The Howa .243 has a 1:10 twist, which should stabilize anything under 100grains.

The 22-250 is twisted 1:14, a typical 22-250 twist for light bullets. However, the 22-250 with a tighter twist has much more flexibility in bullet selection (like a 1:8 twist which would stabilize the 75gr amax)

Due to twist rate alone, I'd go .243. You can shoot light varmint bullets, up to good heavier deer bullets (like the 85TSX)

 

[TEAMSENDIT]

Re: .243 or 22-250?

243 all the way I have had them both and the ballistics on the 243 are superior to the 22-250 and it doesn't cost much more to shoot.

 

[KE5MUJ]

Re: .243 or 22-250?

Thanks for the quick replies. Looks like the .243 will get the nod. Thinking about pairing it with a new redfield revolution 3-9x50 scope to make a budget setup. I already have Leupold STD bases and rings for a Rem 700 which should fit it.