Do you handload?? I've been shooting the 350 gr. Hornady FP thru mine. The gun loves them...and you're right....although not the recoil of a .243, it is certainly manageable with proper rests and form. Mine is currently wearing a Leupy VX II, but I have a Ghost Ring for it. Don't know if I'll put it on or not. It was my intent all along just to work up a good load with the scope on it, and then go to the open sight but I'm having a hard time telling myself to take the scope off..