Would you do it?

[Drycreek3189]

No.

[Capt.Bryan]

243 is way underage for long range. Check out this video. Don't know why everyone thinks you need a 30 call with 180 grain bullets for long range.

https://youtu.be/hY0w1c-gf18

[SharpStix]

243 is way underage for long range. Check out this video. Don't know why everyone thinks you need a 30 call with 180 grain bullets for long range.

https://youtu.be/hY0w1c-gf18

Those VLDs are some very capable projectiles but aren't something our shooter will find on the shelf at academy. Additionally, those Berger VLDs (in my experience) do much better in a barrel with a faster twist to stabilize such a long bullet.
What are the specs on the rifle? The heavier the projectile, the more momentum, translates to the retained energy necessary to drop your deer at 400 yds.

[Capt.Bryan]

I actually aim dead for the shoulders. Most everything I shoot drops in their tracks.

Me too, figured out along time ago that a high shoulder shot usually drops them right there pretty much regardless of caliber. Shoot them behind the shoulder and you will be blood trailing it.

[SmTx]

When I was around 12 years old I misjudged the distance and did take a 400 yard shot with a .243.

I missed lol.

[Capt.Bryan]

Those VLDs are some very capable projectiles but aren't something our shooter will find on the shelf at academy. Additionally, those Berger VLDs (in my experience) do much better in a barrel with a faster twist to stabilize such a long bullet.
What are the specs on the rifle? The heavier the projectile, the more momentum, translates to the retained energy necessary to drop your deer at 400 yds.

I know what your saying I was just making a point if a 243 can drop an elk in its tracks at 600+ yards it will take a deer at 400.

[bboswell]

Why limit yourself to 243?

[gap4040]

I'd sure be disgusted if I took such a shot with such a light load and the animal ran off. Margins for error are too great for me.

[Ryan81]

I'd do it with my 22-250 and wouldn't think twice. If you can shoot then you can shoot. Bullet in the right spot will do its job.

This.

[M16]

Absolutely not. It won't happen on my ranch. Of course it can be done but killing a deer and finding a deer are two different things down there.

[Brute Killer]

killing a deer and finding a deer are two different things down there.