Just had a 700 sps 243 rebored to 358 win by JES and barrel chopped to 18”. It handles just about perfect, for my hunting in PA and NY where 200 yards is the absolute limit and most ranges are 100 or less I can’t think of a handier little thumper. Now I need to decide on a 3-9x40 or a compact 2-7x32 scope to complete the package.
I'd go with the 2x7 in standard. It is what my Stub wears.
I did have a 6X Burris compact on a '98 in 30-06 , 22" bbl, tricked out in a Brown Precision stock, replaced iron bottom metal with Parker-Hale aluminum, light weight sling. With 10 rounds it went 7 1/2 lbs. Did not blind hunt with it, but did stand and alpine. 1 1/2 MOA. Worked fine.
Lacked a little in low light, but never found that a disadvantage in my hunting. For 200 yard shooting, in low light, a straight 4 or 6X in standard might be the best.
