I would have a few concerns about the 204. With the factory ballistics showing 4200 fps with a 32 grain bullet, it would make you wonder about barrel life. Granted, you might not shoot the rifle 100 rounds a year, and if that is so, then you probably wouldn't shoot out the barrel. If you shoot 1K or more a year, the barrel may have a life of just a few years. Kind of brings back memories of the overbored rounds that we see on the market, the 264 Win Mag is a prime example. Great idea on paper, but not good for extended shooing sessions and long barrel life.
I guess the gun and ammo companies don't like a guy like me. I look at the tried and true rounds that have been here a while and have a track record. What would scare me about purchasing a caliber that is new on the market is that if sales don't pick up after a few years, the chance of the round being dropped from production is a real possibility. From there, hand loading and paying outrageous prices for components is the only way to enjoy your toy. You only have to look in the annals of firearms and cartridge history to see the road littered with good ideas that never made it. I just really can't see the 204 doing anything that a half dozen rounds already on the market can't do.
But heck, that's what makes the shooting world go around. You'll never know if you like it without getting one and putting it through its paces. :thumb: