The question comes up many times on this board. I've been reading and posting my own for nine months. When asked the open ended question of which pistol of this type, the concensus is always to get a Mark II.
I think the KMK-512 might be the best all around model. I'm personally going to get the KMK-678GCC .
There is also one called the "Great Eight" which is 8" blued bull.
www.youngsguns.com has great prices and quote $294, so your price sounds "right on".
I wanted a more cool looking one and almost ordered a Hammerli "TrailSide" but the great posters here said that although it may be a wonderful gun, the plastic magazines make it jam.
The S&W models at most stores seem like crap to me. You can grab the bolt with it either open or closed and wiggle it all over the place. Not very tight for a brand new gun.
ps: Check out ALL the models, the most expensive is only another $40. Although, like I said, this may be the best version for you.
Make sure and use your tax rebate check for it. That will give it more meaning to you. I'm going to! $300 for the pistol and $300 for more ammo.