RE: Best .204 under $1000?
Not sure I agree with the above. I have seen (ok only internet) the .204 shoot out to 500 yards. "Armed In Utah" on Savageshooters.com loves his to death and is the one with the pictures. I don't think a .22 Mag will do that.
If all that you are looking for is a paper puncher, why not the .223. More variety of off the shelf ammo if you don't reload, and cheap if you do.