I appreciate all the tips and advice. Think Im going to put the handi rifle in the closet.I looked up the Marlin XL7, but it doesnt come in .243. I had been looking at the Mossberg 100ATR. Just checked out the Stevens. Looks pretty good. It lists a little cheaper than the Mossberg according the their websites, but I can get the Mossberg with black synthetic stock from local hardware store for $299. Can I hear from some Stevens shooters and some Mossberg shooters? Go ahead make your sales pitches!