I'd get an 30-30 because I like the handling and ambidextrous nature of lever guns. I also love my old 1960's vintage Marlin and how slick it functions. It will do all you need and it's an really nice package with an red dot sight in woods like you have.
For me its handling. I just like the fit and handling of my old Marlin, but if ranges are longer than of course the 243 leaves it in the dust.
During the past ammo shortage I still saw 30-30, 243, 270, and 30-06 widely available. That's the beauty of these common sport calibers.
