I am looking for a varmit rifle also. I am probably going to get a REM 700 .243 Stainless Barrel. One thing to consider when looking at the rifles is weight. I told a friend of mine I was looking at the REM VLS etc...and then realized (as he pointed out) that it was like 9 lbs. Something to consider if you plan on doing some hiking. My buddy did pick up a nice gun at Wal-Mart. He bought a REM 700 .243 for $300 and replaced the stock with a top of the line for another $250. If you were to buy this gun from the factory it would be about $900....just an idea....