In my opinion, the 257 Roberts is an excellent, VERY under rated cartridge! It is better than the 243 Win. as a combination varmint/deer cartridge.
How is the 257Roberts better than the 243?
Before you flame me ... FYI that I've owned a 257 for +15yrs and it continues to be my fave deer rifle even after a steady stream of other guns have come and gone.
The 243 has a few advantages that the 257 will not offer ...
- Fits better in a short action. I use a LA for my 257 to get a 3" OAL case length.
- Far better selection of rifles and action types in 243..
- Tons of ammo and loading kit and components to choose from.
- Better selection of bullets.
- Must be more that I can make up later.