Analysis paralysis

So I have a stripped Remington 700 short action w/ .223 bolt I purchased quite a while back from NW Action Works. My intention was to build up a nice tack-driving hunting/target rifle. The components aren't an issue, I have a good idea of what I want it is simply a matter of amassing the parts and having Bert assemble them.

The real problem I've created for myself is which caliber I want the rifle to shoot. I recall I've changed my mind at least four times (.223, .257, .260, .284 to name a few). I already own a nice big game rifle as well as a stock Rem .270 I would like to potentially make some changes to. My only problem with .223 is that I pigeon hole myself as a hunting rifle to strictly varmints (which isn't necessarily a bad thing).

I already reload .223 but to me this isn't enough of a selling point. I really have zero interest in .308. I'm really to the point that I have no idea what I want to do so I'm seeking the advice of the hive.

If it were me, I'd do a .284, but with a .223 bolt face that won't happen. Either have to open up the bolt face you have or run a different bolt which would open up a world of cartridges. I say .284 because I am planning on one myself! Or what do you plan to hunt with it? You could drop down into the 6, or 6.5 cartridges also, still not with the .223 bolt face.

.300 blackout. Supersonic for hunting, subsonic with a can for fun. Use your existing boltface.

Been pondering a build myself.
I will not build a 223 either as I already have many and want to build something between 223 or 6x45 and 243/270
I need the ability to hunt with it as well, so it has to be at least a 6mm.

I built my buddy a 6mm-06 off his old 30-06 and he loves it. Calls it the "laser"
That won't work for you in a short action.

Have you considered a (6mm or 6.5mm) Creedmore or a 6mm -or- 6.5x47 Lapua (http://www.6mmbr.com/gunweek073.html)
Most of the conversions I have considered require a .308 style bolt face... sorry.

Have you built a 6x45 (223 necked up to 6mm) or it's bigger brothers built on the 222 Rem Mag, the 6x47


Obviously not telling you what to do, just bouncing my ideas that have crossed my noggin

Given my multiple caliber changes, I'm really not adverse to a new bolt. I will look into the suggestions, thanks for the replies

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I would listen to Tim K.

.300 Blackout

.243 IMO, versatile as hell with good bullet selections.

My $.02.

300 black out setup won't hurt your wallet compared to needing to buy a whole new rifle.

How about a 1-7 or 1-8 twist barrel for your .223? Then you can push the 77 grainers and reach out quite far.

Just something to think about. But I do like Tim's idea as well.

6.8 SPCII. Wide range of bullets available from 85-130 gr. Brass is getting more available and coming from Federal, Hornady, SSA, Remington, Sellier & Bellot. It is good for hunting anything from Pdogs to Deer. With a decent barrel .5" groups at 100 yards are not uncommon. It is about the most popular caliber out there for hogs.

look at either a 300blk or a 6x45, kewl thing about either is that you can interchange them with any ar caliber. I've been toying with the idea of a 25x45, but there are a lot of options. Best bang for the buck is the 300blk, but the 6x45 is a lot of fun.