Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
Federal Varmint & Predator 243 Winchester ammo pairs a 75-grain jacketed hollow point with a muzzle velocity of 3375 feet per second — engineered to fragment on impact for maximum energy transfer on thin-skinned predators and burrowing varmints. The 243 Winchester cartridge delivers flat trajectory and manageable recoil, making it a workhorse round for prairie dog towns, coyote stands, and back-forty predator control. This load uses Boxer-primed brass cases, reloadable for shooters who track their spent hulls.
Built for the Box
Federal sources components domestically and loads to match pressures across its product line — the Varmint & Predator series mirrors the engineering standards of Federal’s Premium line, at a price point that supports high-volume shooting. The 75-grain JHP features a thin jacket designed to expand at 243 Winchester velocities, fragmenting to arrest energy inside the target. At 3375 fps from the muzzle, this load generates 1897 foot-pounds of energy — enough to anchor coyotes out to 300 yards and vaporize ground squirrels at closer range. The G1 ballistic coefficient of 0.234 indicates moderate wind sensitivity; zero at 200 yards and hold over at extended distances. Brass cases eject cleanly and resize without work-hardening through multiple firings. Non-corrosive Boxer primers support standard small-rifle reloading procedures. Federal packages this load in 40-round boxes — twice the count of many commercial varmint offerings — to reduce per-round cost and minimize trips to the truck during extended sessions.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 243 Winchester |
| Bullet weight | 75 grains |
| Bullet type | Jacketed Hollow Point |
| Muzzle velocity | 3375 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 1897 ft-lbs |
| Rounds per box | 40 |
| Case | Brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| G1 BC | 0.234 |
| Intended use | Varmint / Range & Target |
| Manufacturer | Federal |
Varmint hunters running bolt-action or semi-automatic 243 Winchester rifles will find this load cycles reliably and groups inside MOA from quality barrels. Expect to spend brass cases on the ground; the 40-round count supports afternoon sessions without reloading at the bench. For more 243 ammo options — including heavier hunting loads and match-grade target rounds — review our full catalog.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Muzzle discipline prevents negligent discharges.
- Verify your backstop before firing. Bullets retain lethal energy beyond visible targets.
- This product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands thoroughly after handling ammunition or spent cases.
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