Karl,
My priority is a 200yard plus hunting rig for Deer size game. Probably varmints at times although I have a 223 Contender with 4x12 scope that I have taken groundhogs and 2 doe Antelope out to 400 yards with.
Like the following:
-Reliable on Deer to 350 yards - or further...
-15 inch barrel
-Rifle scope 4x12 or perhaps higher mag.
-Recoil allowing rifle scope use with no brake if possible.
-I will hand load but easy to obtain cases preferred - factory ammo option a plus
-I like long for diameter bullet. - I want a good game bullet. Considered 7mm 08 but thought the 260 or 6.5 better in a handgun. Looking for advice here.