I have decided I "need" a .243 and am going to spend in the budget of $500 (or under). I have a line on a nice M77 (used) but am also considering the Axis XP. The M77 has a 20" barrel which may limit the .243 to some degree but will make it handier when my children start hunting with it.
Thoughts? Other rifles I should be considering?
No I am not tied to the .243 A similar cartridge such as the .257 Roberts would work. I am tied to a bolt action (or single shot) rifle. The Ruger No 1 that was my first choice is out of budget. I prefer non detachable magazines but am aware of the arguments for them so that preference is not high enough to alone sway my opinion. The same goes for wood stocks - while I prefer them I am still torn on the options.
Thoughts? Other rifles I should be considering?
No I am not tied to the .243 A similar cartridge such as the .257 Roberts would work. I am tied to a bolt action (or single shot) rifle. The Ruger No 1 that was my first choice is out of budget. I prefer non detachable magazines but am aware of the arguments for them so that preference is not high enough to alone sway my opinion. The same goes for wood stocks - while I prefer them I am still torn on the options.