WHICH .243" RIFLE FOR UK DEER AND FOX

[nico243]

Out of the following rifles, what would you guys recommend.
The rifle will be carried around all-day 4-5 days a week, so it needs to be reliable and durable.

STEYR PRO-HUNTER SYNTHETIC STAINLESS
STEYR PRO-HUNTER SYNTHETIC BLUED  
CZ / BRNO 550 VARMINT    
REMINGTON 700 VS    
REMINGTON 700 VS SF
BROWNING A-BOLT SYNTHETIC STAINLESS  
TIKKA T3 LITE-STAINLESS    
TIKKA T3 LAMINATED STAINLESS  
TIKKA T3 VARMINT STAINLESS    
WINCHESTER 70 COYOTE

I also don't mind having to carry out minor alterations to it to get the best out of it (i.e. after market trigger, bedding) but would rather have a good shooter out of the box if possible.
I will also be fitting a full-bore moderator (although not on the VS SF, as the barrel is fluted) and bipod.
Any other recommedations welcome?

[Dave in WV]

Trying to pick a rifle for another hunter is difficult since tastes vary. I'd get a stainless rifle with a synthetic or laminated stock. You didn't state the distances you normally shoot. If you are going to carry the rifle more than sit with it a varmint rifle can be heavy. A light varminter may be what you need.

[victorcharlie]

As you say you are going to carry it all day, four or 5 days a week, may I humbly suggest a winchester featherweight or a ruger ultra light.  I know they are not on your list, but for me, at about 3 o clock on the 2nd day, I'd be happy with the ultralight.

None of my business but is there any reason you need a varmit weight?

[Danny Boy]

Most of the rifles you identified are under 7 lbs which is an important factor for carrying. However, you should also think about how well the rifle fits you.

I have the Browning Stainless Stalker in .243. The rifle shoot 1 MOA and is very easy to carry. I hunted in snow, rain and freezing rain without any issue.  This is the deer rifle I would look for in bad weather hunting.

Danny Boy