243 or 30/30

[Mel Carter]

This Sunday I'll be heading over to Mt Diablo to hunt this guys ranch I told you about. I shoot a 300 mag but the guy doesn't want us using this big of a gun? So, I have a choice of either my sons 243 or my other sons 30/30 that I just picked up. I don't think the shots will be much over 150 yards, if that. The 30/30 is open sights and I know the 243 may be a little light but it will do the job. I'm just undecided on which one to use, I love shooting the 243 but it would be kind of cool to drop one with the 30/30

. Which one would you use? Your thoughts.

Thanks, Mel

 

[One Track]

I think it would be fun to shoot the 30/30. Why? Because it would force me stalk closer, than with the 243. That's the fun part for me.

 

[NatureDriven]

I agree with one track. The stock is the most invigerating part of the hunt, with the wind in your face you can practically walk up to those squeelers. The open sighted 30/30 is what I would use.

Good luck and keep us posted on the hunt.

 

[fpscabs]

Either one has benefits. You have to more precise with the .243. You still can stalk as close as you would have with the 30/30, plus you might need to work yourself into a better shooting position to make a vital shot. The decission would come down to the gun you are most comfortable with. A shot off target with the 30/30 may be more work in tracking than an on target shot from the .243.

 

[DILPRXO]

I'd vote for the 30/30..Just because hunting with a lever gun is fun.

 

[yotegetter]

I've hunted most of my life with a 30/30, hogs especially. Early this year I had the same dilemma because I didn't have a longer range, large caliber. I ended using my .243 with Remington 100 gr. core-lokt. It did the job at under 100 yds. I definitely could have done it with my 30-30 within that range. I've gone past 150 yds with my 30-30, but my sight ain't that great anymore, even though I'm only 24 and never have used glasses. Damn computers!

I'd say the 30-30 would do fine if you shoot enough with it. If you're used to hunting behind a scope, go with the .243. With the range you're describing, you'll be fine.

 

[jrifenbark]

I'd go with the 30-30. I can personally attest to its capability at close range. And the others are right in saying that it is fun to hunt with a 30-30 lever. Getting close seems to be easy in that area. I will go out on a limb and say, in Tejon or CR, there is no reason not to get within 100 yds. of an animal for your shot. There is lots of cover and plenty of animals. I think it would be a more humane kill with average accuracy at 100 yds with 170gr. Corelokts or Particians.

 

[MattS]

I was coyote hunting today and found some hogs. Stalked withing 20 feet of a nice fat sow and my 243 with a 100 grain bullet worked great, she never even got up. Of course when the 20 hogs around her exploded around me I was a little nervous! The 243 has worked well for me as long as you keep in the effective range. The 30/30 would work but I like my scope and the accuracy with the 243 round. I have had no problem with the bullets passing clear through the hogs and clean kills.
Like posted above, keep mind of the wind and you can just about walk right up to them. Good Luck

 

[bubba]

Take both...

 

[Mel Carter]

Yeah, I'll probably take both and make the decision when I get there. Hopefully i'll have some good pics to post.

Mel

 

[campcook50]

Thanks BUBBA! I was wonderin when someone was going to say it! TAKE THEM BOTH MEL!
You know that area, lotsa brushy spots..and I suspect as hot as it gets their, they'll be in the thick stuff.

Take the 243 in the morning, if you connect, take the 30/30 in the afternoon. Still five tags on the pig packet???

Either way, have fun and be safe...and don't forget the pics!