I traded for the sps tactical in 308 today. I got rid of my savage predator hunter. I think I am going to love the shorter barrel. Tonight I noticed what looks like a small chip on the crown. I hope this is not going to be a problem. I haven't shot it yet so I don't know if this is going to be an issue but I'm hoping it will be fine. Thanks again for helping me with my decision. [/quote
You're going to love your SPS-T. Mine shoots really well from 100 out to 1000 yds. Put some good glass and rings on it and you won't regret it. The only thing I changed on the gun was to put an HS precision from a 5R instead in place of the Hogue stock.
As for recoil - yes it is harder to control than the longer barreled heavier guns. As others have said, as long as you get behind the gun properly its fine. But because its so much lighter than a 20lb AI/AW or similar - its less forgiving. But it shoots!
Having a chip in your muzzle crown doesn't sound good. You won't know until you shoot it, but that's usually not a good thing as the crown needs to usually be in good condition for any kind of accuracy.
edit: PM when you start loading for it. I have some good loads worked up that shoot really well out of the SPS-T.