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The 6.5 Creedmoor is the better all around cartridge The .243 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor are both excellent cartridges for deer and medium sized game. Here are some differences between the two: The .243 Winchester fires smaller diameter bullets at a significantly higher velocity, resulting in less bullet drop and, thus, a flatter trajectory at a longer range. The 6.5 Creedmoor retains more energy downrange and drifts less in the wind thanks to the aerodynamic projectile. The 6.5 Creedmoor has more applications at distances over 300 yards, and hunters have had more success using it on larger game such as moose and elk The 6.5 Creedmoor has better barrel life compared to Winchester.243. The recoil is the only category that sees Winchester.243 as the winner

Hi Billy and welcome. I would go with the 6.5. It is the best choice between the two. A heavier bullet and great ballistics coefficient will yield the best of both worlds as far as range, knockdown energy. The only real-world advantage of the .243 is ammunition variety and availability. Cheers, stay safe and enjoy!

Billy, both are fine cartridges but I'd personally go with 6.5 creedmoor. For hunting the 6.5 uses heavier projectiles with more energy. For target shooting 6.5 creedmoor was specifically designed by hornady for long range target shooting. Once people realized how accurate it was it quickly became a favorite for hunting. Both calibers are light recoiling but 243 has a slight advantage in recoil but other than that 6.5 creedmoor is the clear winner. Hope this helps and good luck with your choice.