Ya gotta try a .243, lots of bullet selection and you can hunt deer sized game down to gophers.

Of the .243 or .260 I'd go with the .243, but I do like the idea of the levergun. You already have the bases covered, another bolt action won't add to your capabilities. 95% of all game is shot within range of the lever action and you have the option of the standard 30-30 or 35 Rem, the .308 or .338 Marlin express, a bunch of pistol calibers, or one of the big bore .444 or 45-70. The Hornady leverevolution ammo turns the 30-30 into a 250 yard rifle. I have the Marlin 336 stainless steel in 30-30 and I love it, it's light weight and smooth handling.

.243win

I would think the 7mm-08 would be more popular than the .260, seems like its all I hear about these days, so a better option might be the .243 vs. 7mm-08.

I'd still say .243win, that's exactly what I have, a .243 in a lightweight setup mostly for antelope and the occasional coyote.

The .260 has found a home in the long distance shooting arena. I believe it's one of the best calibers. It has limited recoil and can send a bullet down range quite a bit with good accuracy. It's my favorite deer cartridge.

Good luck deciding. I just can't see you being upset with deciding to get a .260.

iSnipe