Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
Shop 243 Winchester ammo from Nosler—the BT Varmint 70 grain load delivers 3500 fps muzzle velocity and a G1 ballistic coefficient of 0.31 for flat-shooting performance on prairie dogs, coyotes, and other varmints. The 243 Winchester is a necked-down .308 Winchester case, introduced in 1955 for dual-purpose deer and varmint hunting, offering mild recoil and excellent accuracy in bolt-action and semi-automatic platforms. This 70 grain Ballistic Tip configuration sits at the lighter end of the 243 spectrum, optimized for speed and rapid expansion rather than deep penetration—making it ideal for pest control and predator management at ranges beyond 300 yards.
Performance at a Glance
Each round leaves the muzzle at 3500 feet per second with 1904 foot-pounds of energy. The polymer tip resists deformation in the magazine and initiates expansion on impact, while the heavy jacket base holds together through extreme velocities. Nosler brass is manufactured to tight dimensional tolerances with Boxer primers, making every fired case reloadable for handloaders looking to tune loads. The 0.31 ballistic coefficient and 0.169 sectional density produce a trajectory that stays supersonic well past typical varmint engagement distances, giving you holdover predictability when the wind picks up.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 243 Winchester |
| Bullet weight | 70 Grains |
| Bullet type | Nosler Ballistic Tip Polymer Tip |
| Muzzle velocity | 3500 Feet Per Second |
| Muzzle energy | 1904 Foot Pounds |
| Rounds/box | 20 Round |
| Case | Brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| G1 Ballistic Coefficient | 0.31 |
| Sectional Density | 0.169 |
| Velocity Rating | Supersonic |
| Lead Free | No |
| Intended use | Hunting |
| Manufacturer | Nosler |
Nosler’s BT Varmint line sits within the broader 243 ammo category, which spans bullet weights from 55 to 100 grains for applications ranging from groundhog suppression to medium-game hunting. This 70 grain load occupies the light-for-caliber slot, trading penetration for velocity and explosive fragmentation—making it a poor choice for deer-sized game but an excellent option for coyotes, bobcats, and prairie towns where ricochets and overpenetration are concerns.
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.
- Always follow the four rules of firearm safety: treat every firearm as loaded, never point at anything you are not willing to destroy, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and be certain of your target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify that your state and local jurisdiction permit the purchase, possession, and use of this ammunition type. Some areas restrict hollow-point and expanding projectiles.
- This ammunition contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm (Prop 65). Wash hands thoroughly after handling ammunition and components.
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