Sorry, are you saying I can get a shot out destroyer, AND reline it for like $500? 'cause thats a pretty reasonable deal... that is actually something that is probably worth looking into.
You "should" be able to do that. It may be more now. I did mine two years ago. Pretty straight forward conversion and if you are at all handy, you can do most of the work yourself.
I see you're in Port Moody. Bits of Pieces in Delta should be able to supply you with a chambered liner to use in the destroyer barrel. You may want Barry to install the liner but that would cost more.
If you're looking at a semi auto, Winchester mod 1907 rifles with rotted bores can also be found cheaply if you look around.
If you want to reload, go for a bolt action. Even a CZ with a 223 bolt face can be adapted just by putting on a new barrel. That would make a great switch barrel. One for cheap plinking and one for long range shooting.
If you're just plinking with surplus, corrosive steel cased ammo then the 1907 may be the way to go.
Understand, this would be a one off labor of love. Likely not easy to sell. One man's dream is another man's boredom.