I'll add I did handle one.Maybe it's just a psychological thing because of such a short barrel but it felt a little odd to me.I would also look at Rems mode 7 and Wins compact featherweight.If used is OK I would try to find the original Model 7 with the 18 1/2" barrel or Rugers' 77 with the full length stock 18 1/2" barrel.Regardless I would go with 7-08.