Irritating Savage 11

Bought it used for $295 at a gun show - 11 FXP3 in .243 Win.. The intent was to rebarrel to 6.5 CM. Had never played with a .243, though, so I bought a die set, box of Hornady 95g SST and a bag or brass.FIgured I might have a little fun and maybe get a different .243 in the future.

Built10 H4831 test loads, 2 each at 5 different powder charges using 0.5g powder increments, and headed to the range. Don't recall where all the shots went but 44.5 and 45.0g charges grouped at .4". Chose 44.8g as my load, built a bunch and was rewarded with very good groups. ****** - there went any thoughts of the 6.5SM.

Was at the range yesterday getting ready for Wyoming antelope next week. Took my favorite rifle, a Ruger .257 Roberts, the .243, a .280 and a .300WM. (OK, the .300 was for elk season.) In spite of a pretty steady 20mph tailwind with a slight angle to my right, all the rifles shot really well.

As I was casing the rifles for the retun home, I realized I had a faux virgin target at 300 yards. Grabbed the .243 and took a shot. Adjusted for the wind and took another. Adjusted a bit more and took a third. The last one took out the center of the bullseye, but all three were good. The target speaks for itself:
[IMG]https://i638.photobucket.com/albums/...004_141436.jpg[/IMG]

Was planning on just taking the .257 Roberts for antelope, but now I'm thinking I'll take the .243 as well. I have two doe tags. :)

Inexpensive tool perfection on the job. Nice shooting. What scope was that?...looks like it tracks well.

Burris 3-9x Fullfield II with Ballistic Plex reticle.

Scope was not adjusted - I just adjusted the aim point.

You're obviously adept at using Kentucky windage.
Nice shooting.

I traded for a Savage model 11 BGL in 243, and gave it to my son for his first deer hunt. He took his first ever buck at 220 yds (gps) with a shot to the heart using an 87 gr V-Max hand load. Took two steps and dropped. Very handsome buck, wish I could've afforded a shoulder mount.

Doubt you'll have any troubles with your 243 in the field.

Nice shooting, BTW!