RE: .308 or .243
I am wanting to get the SPS varmint aswell but as an extended range starter rig. IF you are only going to be shooting 200 yards I wouldn't worry about getting a 26'' barrel the normal 20'' and 22'' barrels the 308 usually comes with can handle 400+ yards with ease. The 26'' barrel can become a nusence if you are hunting in thick woods or a small shooting house.