Stevens 200

[rebAL]

I am considering a new 200 in .223 and have 3 questions.  1) What is the difference beteen 200 & 200XP; 2) How heavy is the barrel: IOW,  do I need to be concerned with it heating up? 3) Will it easily accept a 16" scope with regard to eye relief?  Thanks for replies.

[351 power]

i have a new 200 in .223. i'm using a 3-9 banner scope and it shoots 1-1.5" groups consistently. i have only used factory rounds. heat doesn't seem to be a problem after 5-6 quick rounds. the barrel is about the same contour as my rem 700 adl. hope this helps.

[mountainview]

Any barrel will get hot, it depends on how thick the barrel and how fast you're spitting the rounds out. Rule of thumb is that thicker barrels heat up slower but most sporting rifles have thin(ner) barrels which heat up fairly quick so 3-5 rounds followed by cool-off period is recommended. WRT eye relief, it varies from manufacturer/model but is generally 3 to 4". Different mounts/bases are available so that with few exceptions, scopes can be mounted to accomodate the eye relief. You'll want to mount as close to the bore as possible so consider the height of the rings as well.
Good luck and safe shooting.