My first build was a LA Stevens that Fred did a T&T job on. I added a Boyd's thumb hole varminter and the SSS trigger. The gun was a factory 270. I had been a long fan of the 6 mm Rem but always wanted a slower twist 244 as a true varminter. I ordered a 1:12 barrel from Shilen and had it chambered to a 6mm Rem. I run the 75 VMax at 3600 fps with the 28" barrel. It has served me well in reducing the coyote population in my area. I have more than a dozen barrels now and 5 difference actions, but one of them will always be a 244. There is some good 6mm varmint factory ammo, but I reload everything some can't speak for it or the availability. I would not have a problem making a slow twist 243 as a varmint rig. Luck in your choice, Tim