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243 Winchester Super Short Magnum Overview

Developed by Winchester in 2003, the 243 WSSM is a short magnum cartridge designed to deliver high velocity with moderate recoil. It offers superior flat trajectory ideal for varmint and medium game hunting. While niche, it remains popular among precision hunters and enthusiasts.

Why the 243 WSSM is a Top Choice

High velocity with efficient powder usage
Flat shooting for longer effective range
Reduced recoil compared to similar magnums
Compact cartridge length for short-action rifles
Excellent for varmint and deer hunting

Key Variants

243 WSSM Super Varmint

Optimized for high-velocity varmint hunting with lightweight bullets and maximum flat trajectory.

243 WSSM Ballistic Silver Tip

Designed for controlled expansion and high accuracy on medium game targets.

243 WSSM Power-Point

Balanced for reliable expansion and penetration on deer-sized game.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	243 WSSM	243 Win	7mm-08 Remington
MSRP	$1.10/round	$0.90/round	$1.20/round
Capacity/Size	Short magnum case, fits short-action rifles	Standard length case, short-action	Standard length case, short-action
Weight	Light recoil, moderate weight	Low recoil	Moderate recoil
Optics-Ready	Yes, commonly paired with scopes	Yes	Yes
Notable Pro	Very flat trajectory	Widely available ammunition	Versatile for hunting and target
Notable Con	Less common, ammunition cost	Slightly lower velocity	Higher recoil than 243 WSSM

Best Use Cases

Varmint hunting with precision shots
Medium game like deer
Range practice for flat-shooting calibers
Collectors of niche magnum cartridges

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use 243 WSSM ammunition in a standard 243 Winchester rifle?

No. The 243 WSSM has a different case dimension requiring rifles chambered specifically for 243 WSSM cartridges.

What is the typical velocity of the 243 WSSM?

Standard 243 WSSM loads can exceed 3800 fps with a 55-grain bullet, providing a very flat trajectory.

How does 243 WSSM compare to 243 Winchester?

243 WSSM offers higher velocity and energy due to its short magnum case but is less common and costlier to shoot.

243 WSSM for Sale