I would go with Savage or T/C Venture or even a Marlin Bolt ; I had a 243 cal. in the Handi I think I spent more money on bullets then the rifle itself.I will say it shot decent but nothing to brag about but it was finicky.
I also had a Remington SPR18 another bomb but the price was right so I also played with it.
The Handi are a luck of the draw in 243 cal. and I also had a 7-08 another bomb.
I do have a 30-06 and 38-55 both shoot outstanding: The 30-06 100 yds can but 3 shot in a dime
The 38-55 another lucky draw it was the last year marlin took over the barrel and were made correct to spec:
I was lucky to buy the other day a Remington Mohawk 243 cal.
I will say I was lucky on this short bolt action gun
MAN just a one hole group gun:shoots outstanding