Well, after all the good reviews here, I went and done it. I didn't end up with a .243, but did take home a 270. I intended to take home the smaller caliber, but the shop had a sale on the 270 with the matte stainless barrel (very appealing to me, even though I suspect it will scratch easily) that I could not pass up. After the sale price ($599) and the liberal application of a few gift cards, I walked out with the rifle for $490 in cash.
Very excited about the new rifle. Thanks all.
Very excited about the new rifle. Thanks all.