Both are comperable rounds. The .243 can be had in a short action, while the 25-06 requires a long action. That is the only differance and in an Encore it does not matter since there is no bolt. Either will work and do the same job. The only advantage is ammo availiability, the .243 might have the edge there. The 25-06 is roughly 300fps faster, but I don't think a deer or coyote will know the differance.