.243 Win. -vs- .243 Ackley

[alstar80j]

What is the big difference between the .243 Win. and the .243 Ackley in performance, cost, longevity,barrel life...) ?? In the long run, is it worth the switch ??

 

[chino1969]

I have a .243 A.I. with over 1500 rds. down the tube; all hot. I can't really compare it to a regular .243 but I can tell you that I shoot 70 grn. Nosler Ballistic Tips @3650 ft/s, 80 grn. Berger MEF's @3550 ft/s, & 87 grn. Hornady V-Maxes @ approx. 3400 ft/s. The throat looks like an alligator hide and this cracking is evident way down the bore but the barrel is still shooting. I have two new barrels to screw on when this one finally dies and am willing to pay the price in reduced barrel life for the added performance. Ackley's have always held a fascination for me because they are wildcats that have been around for awhile and there is quite a bit of info., reload data, etc. Some parent cartridges really benefit from the Ackley process and some are not as dramatic; you'll hear arguments from both sides. The Ackley or Improved cartridge has a 40 degree shoulder angle, reduced body taper, and more case capacity. You will find that once the brass is fireformed, there is little case growth or stretch and less trimming. Look on this site for the .243 section on the left hand side on the home page and many of your questions may be answered.
Regards,
Chino69

 

[Bobs243Ackley]

I have been shooting the .243AI for over 25 years and it has been a cartridge that I have really learned to appreciate for long range varmint work. I went with the .243AI since it allows me to get more firings before I need to bump the shoulder, and trim, as compared to the standard .243 Winchester. Of course, it never hurts to have the extra performance that is offered by the larger case volume. I find that the AI will give a little bit more barrel life than the .243 Winchester. I think that the best way to figure if the AI is the way to go for you, is to do the research, and then make your decision based upon what your personal needs are. I have never regretted my decision to use the .243AI. As Chino69 said, go to the .243 Information Page and I am sure that you will find a wealth of information to use to make the best decision possible for yourself.

Cordially,
Bob Blaine