Remington 700 VLS .243win Laminated/Heavy Barrel

[rangerjoe33]

I am new to firearms purchases but I am looking at purchasing a Remington 700 VLS .243win Laminated/Heavy Barrel. While trying to study up on it I am not sure if that is what it is designed for.

I found this rifle at a local pawn shop, it is in almost new condition and comes with a less than than expensive scope.

Any reason to not use a heavy barrel rifle for deer hunting?

[KwackWacker]

A few things to consider, what type of hunting will you be doing? Anything where you have to lug that ol heavy monster around for more than an hour or so and you'll be worn out by lunch. Stand hunting? A heavy rifle has more benefits in a stand. The extra weight will help you steady the cross hairs. And you don't have to hold the weight all day like you would if you were stalking or still hunting.

[rangerjoe33]

Will be White Tail hunting in Texas. Stand hunting, maybe a bit of stalking if I get bored in the middle of the day, but in the stand in morning and evening. I was mre concerned with all the reviews I have read, nothing specific to deer hunting, lots of talk of varmints and such.

.243 on white tail should be fine though. Just wanted to make sure I wasn't buying the wrong kind of rifle. Thanks for the reply.

[KwackWacker]

This gun was designed to fire lots of rounds without the adverse effects of the barrel heating up too much. A heavier barrel takes longer to heat up and then it dissipates the heat quickly. A .243 is just fine for Texas Whitetails. Good luck out there.

[DocHolladay]

Kwack answered for all of us I do believe. Good answers Kwack and keep up the great work. Good luck and welcome to the forum, rangerjoe.

[cynic]

Yea Kwack, Leave something for the rest of us.

[KwackWacker]

Well normally I'm fighting just to post before you two.

[graysilm]

243 is a good round, i have been dropping the whitetail in their tracks this season. Don't know if I would go with a heavy barrel though.

[rangerjoe33]

I am headed out to make my purchase today. Wanted to get you guys opinion, you have all been generous enough to answer so far.

I have considered the REM 710 .243 package (w/scope) new at $299 academy sports instead of the rem 700 VLS .243 (w/bsa scope on luepold or redfield rings) for $450 that i asked about previously. This is the first deer rifle I will be buying. I have hunted before but using a friends rifle.

Am I making a good buying decision? What would you guys do?

[DocHolladay]

I would buy the one at the pawnshop. Go with your gut instinct. I'd also ask them if they could give you a week trial. If it doesnt perform, you can bring it back. They may not do it but it never hurts to ask.

[progers]

Check WalMart. They carry the Savage 243 and scope combo for cheaper!