My suggestion is to seek out a good quality used rifle that fits your criteria. This could save you 40% over the cost of new rifle that is still in production. If a used rifle is being sold with a quality scope and mounts, so much the better. Unless you are already deeply invested in .30/06 ammunition or components, there is little reason not to consider other cartridges of similar capability, so don't discount a rifle that checks off all the boxes except for the cartridge its chambered for. Aside from the EE, Profit River and Epps Sporting Goods usually have a broad selection of used and consignment guns to choose from. Something else to consider is that where it is you'll be hunting, and the range at which you'll be shooting, suggests that a rifle equipped with good quality iron sights might be even more appropriate than a scope sight, which would allow you to spend a bit more on the rifle. Avoid buying junk "race to the bottom" guns.
