either one with a hunting type load. it wouldn't make any difference that is worth talking about.

sometimes one can get away from you, even with a rifle. but....without being there under the circumstances....i would have recommended removing the sapling prior, and practicing extensively with that scope beforehand. if he had time to run 60yrds, it seems you woulda had time to take a good aim n fire, or be ready when he stopped n turned, or even made some vocal noise yourself to get him to stop and look. with that in process, i would not have given those does a second thought. you have got to make quick decisions and get on for the shot. with him getting away anyway, those does were near meaningless.

my memory fails me. what scope did you put on the .243?

if one is going to hunt with a handgun and be successful, you have got to be willing to miss an opportunity from time to time as well. keep at it and you will succed. i promise you it will be worth it.

just some of my thoughts....but i wasn't there....

I put a Burris 3x12 on her

ahhhhh.....5" might be a lil more than a sapling....lol.



while that is a great scope and fitting on a .243....for close range encounters the 2x7 model is much more forgiving and easier to get "on". it is enough that may have made the difference in this case. i would recommend it, if you continue to hunt the woods.

either one with a hunting type load. it wouldn't make any difference that is worth talking about.

ahhhhh.....5" might be a lil more than a sapling....lol.



while that is a great scope and fitting on a .243....for close range encounters the 2x7 model is much more forgiving and easier to get "on". it is enough that may have made the difference in this case. i would recommend it, if you continue to hunt the woods.

we learn a lot more from the deer we don't kill than the ones we do. You had a mature buck inside 10 yds ,thats fun. I applaude the fact that you didn't rush the shot.Don't second guess yourself, Nothing is worse than drawing blood and not recovering the deer ,and it happens even with shots that seem perfect. Sometimes the deer wins ,give him a salute or tip of the hat ,and start planning for next time.

i'm just saying the 2x7 model is less critical to get on(eye relief etc), and it should help you in close situations. the 3x12 is good....and complements the .243. it is a good bench scope and even good in the field, but the 2x7 is better in some respects.
i would hate to tell you to sell, n it not work for you that way. i have 2 2x7's and several(i forget how many) 3x12's. thats just what i percieve.

Did You have the scope cranked up, or on its lowest power? Eye relief is alot more critical on higher power and its alot harder to get on something. I use my lowest power at all times, unless the target is totally relaxed , in the open, at over 100 yards.

i will only use 2x when hunting woods or red dot scopes but thats where my hunting area is thick woods.

Asquires,

As others have stated, either gun will perform admirably in those range conditions. As a frequent 2-gun hunter, the dilemma is which gun do I grab when the deer appears? I don't know if that big deer was seen suddenly at close range, or if he used the obstacles to get close - but one thing is for sure, a big buck at close range will rattle you and change your well-laid game plan instantly!

All that being said, any excuse to get a new gun is a good one!

i think your doing your hunting fine. if u are hunting the thick stuff more like me where the deer like to roam then the 44 or 45 will serv you very well hope u the best.

a 45/410 barrel for it with open sights

If your primary use is going to be shooting bullets at deer, you would be be better off with a 45LC ONLY barrel as the 45/410 is really only worthwhile as a shotgun. It scatters bullets like it does shot.

Thats the monster 45LC barrel only!

If you want the .45 for a second gun to carry with the .243, I would look to a revolver of some kind,preferably a ruger. A lot smaller package, less weight, easier to carry. I have had a 10 inch .45 colt for a lot of years, but prefer my rugers for a second gun,just easier to carry ,quicker second shot,easier to get into action in a stand. Try drawing a 10 inch barrel contender from a holster, seated in a tree stand ,then a 4 5/8 ruger both crossdraw. A lot easier and less movement with the ruger.I love my contenders and will never be without one,but not as backup, there are better options out there.