Change barrel or buy a new rifle

So I have a dilemma, I have a 12FV in 223 for target shooting and I have a stevens 200 in 223 for hunting small game. My brother is graduating high school next week and really wants a 223. I am going to give him my stevens but I am torn as to how I will fill my hunting rifle niche. I am considering buying a stevens in 243 to replace the one my brother will be getting and I am also considering putting a new shorter barrel on my 12FV. So my question to everyone is new barrel or new rifle? Thanks for the input.

Always, I repeat, always, buy another rifle.

uj

One word, "yes."

buy another rifle!

Both!

If you were to replace the barrel you would probably be wanting a sporter barrel (like the Stevens you are giving your brother). This would also mean buying another stock. If you really like the way the 12FV shoots I would leave it alone.

Another reason: You said you use the FV for target shooting. Even with the 223 in the heavy barrel it can heat up. I always take a couple of rifles with me when I go to the range and alternate back and forth between them so the barrel on one can be cooling while I am shooting a group with the other.

Why not buy your brother a new gun, and keep what you got? You brother would probably appreciate something new more than something used, if your thinking about buying a new gun anyway. You can re-barrel your Stevens to a 243, take off barrels don't cost much.