I pondered the decision on a .243 vs 25-06 six months ago. I ended up going with the 25-06. I use the 25-06 for coyotes/deer and a .270 for deer only. Here are some pro's and con's for both cals.
.243
1. Recoil is less than the 25-06.
2. Ballistically a very flat good long range round. (300-400 yards?)
3. Ammo is mainstream and plentiful.
4. Would not recommend to use on anything larger than deer size game.
5. Great coyote gun and good deer gun
.25-06
1. Recoil is more than the .243 on the 115-120 gr bullets. Can effectively use 100 gr bullets for deer with the same/better results as the .243
2. Good consistent 400-500 yard caliber. Ballistics are superior to the .243
3. Ammo is not as mainstream and costs more than the .243
4. Great coyote/deer rifle.
Summary: I think the 25-06 has more to offer in flexibility. The caliber has been around since '69 but wildcatted since the '40-50's. Using 100gr bullets will address your recoil concerns and give you a bullet that will still get the job done. Your call but I think the 25-06 rules over the .243.
.243
1. Recoil is less than the 25-06.
2. Ballistically a very flat good long range round. (300-400 yards?)
3. Ammo is mainstream and plentiful.
4. Would not recommend to use on anything larger than deer size game.
5. Great coyote gun and good deer gun
.25-06
1. Recoil is more than the .243 on the 115-120 gr bullets. Can effectively use 100 gr bullets for deer with the same/better results as the .243
2. Good consistent 400-500 yard caliber. Ballistics are superior to the .243
3. Ammo is not as mainstream and costs more than the .243
4. Great coyote/deer rifle.
Summary: I think the 25-06 has more to offer in flexibility. The caliber has been around since '69 but wildcatted since the '40-50's. Using 100gr bullets will address your recoil concerns and give you a bullet that will still get the job done. Your call but I think the 25-06 rules over the .243.
