How is the .243 kick compared to these or say a .12ga?
About the same. Not as much "push" as a 12ga, but a sharper recoil.
I have a .243 in a Ruger 77R, and have fired maximum hand loads from 87gr up to 150gr. I don't notice much difference in them.
I have found the .243 to be a very accurate and versatile round, but so are the 7mm-08, 25-06, and 270. I like short action rifles, so personally I would rule out the .25-06 and .270 Win. Since you're not eating the prairie dogs, I wouldn't worry about overkill.
