.243 or 7mm-08?

I have a bias against the 243, so I'd say 7-08 if only given the 2 choices. It's tame and will take larger game as she grows. Throwing in a third, I'd say 25-06 would be my preference if I'm stopping at deer sized targets. It's also very tame and has a bit more oomph than the 243.

And learn to reload
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Since she is used to the recoil I want to say 7-08 but truth is either would do, if your not a loader then the 243 might be easier to find ammo for.
 
243. less recoil. all it takes is a scope in the eye 1 time from heavy recoil gun and you have lost your hunting buddy for life. I seen it happen couple years ago when my buddy gave his daughter his old 30-30 to use 1st time deer hunting. she has not gone again. you just cannot beat the 243 for light frame people or old guys like me ha ha. she will not be afraid to really bear down on it for that once in a life time 400 yard shot. marty
 
I own a .223,22-250,243,7mm-08,308. buy the.243 for a starter,if she outgrows it get a 308 n be done,its the best all around caliber recoil vs reward in the industry.
 
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Perhaps it would be wise to check availability and prices of
both the .243 and 7-08 ammo in your area. Here, the 7-08 ammo
is right at TWICE the price of .243! And that's WHEN you can
find it. Myself, I can reload for both for pennies on the
dollar compared to the ammo itself.

Given the proper bullet, a .243 can take down any deer with
good shot placement. Shot placement should be the prime
consideration.
 
I'd go 243 and not ever think twice about it. Simply put it's one of the greatest all around calibers ever. Bullet weights from 55 to 100+grains with mild recoil and readily available factory ammo.
 
I have both calibers in lightweight rifles, and the 7-08 kicks a lot more than does the 243. Now, one could used the reduced recoil factory loads, or load the 7-08 down some to compensate for that. But, I'm not a huge fan of doing that, as I like to get the most I can out of a cartridge. That makes the 243 the best choice. My granddaughter has been shooting the 243 since she was 9, and handles it with no problem.
 
I have both. For a youngster get the 243. Less recoil equals more quality range time. Quality range time should mean an accurate shot when her moment of truth comes on her first deer!
 
I would go with 243 also, you just dont want bad habits or shyness coming from the firmer recoil of a 708. You can load the 708 down to 120gr bullets, but you can get to the 243 weights.

Good on you for taking her hunting.
 
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