K, that is my delima as you pointed out. Here in OK a 243 is a great all around cartrdige from whitetail, yote, badger, and about all except Big Foot. I figure that a R25/DPMS with optics and mount will be a bit cheaper than the the Cooper and rings but the urge to get seveal mags will close price gap. Then I have to do glass, another small fortune in itself. Hmm, maybe a heavy brl Handy Rifle LOL.