the damage will be less than a 12 ga rifled slug bud select the correct bullet especially if you are a reloader

check your state laws on .243 some states have a .25 minimum caliber restriction

The 243 is a good round for whitetails. With premium bullets like the Barnes TSX I've even killed elk with it. Just stick with controlled expanding bullets and you'll be fine.

As with any large round, just choose the right (tough less expanding) bullet to minimize meat damage.