Will a 243 kill deer, absolutely.
That said, I won’t use one again if I can help it. I’ve killed deer with everything from 22 magnum to 300 win mag and my least favorite is the 243. I just have not had good luck with it. Deer still die, but dang they don’t leave a blood trail. Hunting in pine plantations, blood trails are a must.
If I did decide to run one again, it would be with TTSX or Accubonds. Something I wouldn’t worry about a shoulder shot with.
