The 243 is fine. Other good short action choices are 260 Remington, 7-08, 7x57, .308 Win. Can't go wrong with any of these, so if you go used, keep your options open.

I also like the new Savage rifles, they are a good and accurate rifle. They don't look the greatest (except their top of the line models), but deer don't care. The Stevens model is even less money.