I was in your boat a few years ago. I finally bought a 223, because it is cheaper to shoot than the 22-250. The 22-250 is one screaming caliber though. Even so its hard to justify because w/ it you use as much powder as the 243/6mm's and nearly as much as the 25-06, you may save a few cents per bullet, but thats it. Powder,brass, primers will be the same. ALL of wich will out perform the 22-250 when loaded w/ light for caliber bullets(60-85gr). plus you can get heavier bullets (85-100+gr)and use them on deer. the 22-250 performs great on varmits, but thats ALL its good for, the others perfrom just as well and can be used both ways at the same cost. I have a 223 and a 6mm Rem.