The Savage Model 10 in .243 from Walmart would be my choice. They sell between $387 and $397 depending on which Walmart. For this price you get a great rifle that includes the accu trigger, and a cheapo scope. I'd use the scope until I could afford to upgrade, but I wouldn't plan on using it forever. These guns imo are the best deals going right now. Everyone I've shot has been very accurate.

I'd stay away from the Remington 710/770, Mossberg ATR, and other similar rifles as they are not much cheaper price wise than the Savage, and a lot cheaper quality wise. The Savage Axis/Edge is another one I'd stay away from. Not because it's horrible, but because the Savage Model 10 is soo much better, for not much more.

If you want another Marlin, they make the XS-7 in a .243 or the XL-7 in 25-06. The only reason I'd stay away from this gun is they have been getting a lot of mixed reports lately on the quality since Remington moved their plant. IMO why take a gamble on if you are going to get a good one or not, when you could just buy the Savage for not much more and know you are going to get a good one.