Yet another new guy....

[steve-r]

Very informative group of forums here, and equally informed people. Came across the sight by accident. Wish I'd found it sooner.

I hunt coastal blacktails out here during the November rains in our very wet rainforests, with a Savage 99 .308. w. Bushnell 4x40mm scopechief on top.
I like the gun, easy to carry, lever action is smooth, and it has bagged its share of game.
Most shots are inside 100 yds, some inside 25yds, but they have been logging more and more of the areas I hunt, and so now there is a need for 150-250 yd shots.

I'm concerned about a couple things - the wood stock is showing its age...the all day rains aren't doing it any good, even though I try to keep it oiled. When its wet, the accuracy of the gun seems to move around, and I'm wondering of the forearm stock is swelling and affecting the aim...is that possible?

Also, it seems to have a decent kick, with 180gr factory Remington corelokt SP, so much that I don't practice as much at the range as I should...any more than 10-15 shots and I'm starting to flinch now. I know I need to practice, especially for those longer shots....its like my golf game..if I don't practice its really hard to maintain a decent score.
They guy I bought it from years ago didn't like the kick either.

So I'm looking around for a potential replacement rifle - and these are the features I'm considering:
-synthetic stock to beat the 'wetcoast' weather, but not so lightweight that the recoil factor is worse
-bolt-action
-lighter recoil...maybe .243, 6mm rem, .260, .270 Win...i dunno, but more range time is desired
-flatter trajectory than the .308, but not such high energy that these small deer are all shot up and spoiled meat
-a lighter bullet....say 120-140gr should still do the job
-tack driving accuracy is a must...i need to know that it will shoot where I put the cross-hairs
-i'm not sure if the stainless steel feature is worth the extra cost or not, but the blueing on the 99 is wearing off more now
-a reliable safety, smooth action,
-detachable mag or not? my 99 has detachable so i'm used to it
-and it needs to fit me, but i can't seem to find any good info on that
-trying to keep the price at/under $1000

Anyway, I've been reading lots of mfg'r websites, product reviews, and this forum, trying to get more informed, and it just seems like the more i read, the more options are out there. I know that asking for recommendations can also start some religious wars cuz everyone has their favourites, and thats not my intent...but of course they are welcome. So instead, i'll ask if there are any other important factors i should be considering, and how would you prioritize the key factors to be considered?

Thanks for any input.

 

[ontgunner]

Welcome aboard Steve!
Sounds like you might be in the market for a Savage, Stevens or Remington synthetic in 7mm-08.
That said, I have no experience with any of them! (guns or calibre!)
From the ones that I've handled, I like the Remington model Seven Youth (I've got short arms and like warm clothes), but it is also one of the few readily available with iron sights (I don't like the option of scope only).
The 7mm-08 also seems to fit your criteria. Lots of guys around here shoot it and will be able to give you a better opinon.
But anyways, welcome home!

 

[steve-r]

thanks...i was looking at the Chuck Hawk estimated recoil table on his site
http://www.chuckhawks.com/recoil_table.htm and didn't notice the 7mm-08....great suggestion.

i'm still hoping for some feedback on the most important features to look for in a reliable "medium" deer gun based on experience, not what the brochures say.

also, what about fitting a rifle? i'm only 5'7" and 26" armpit to fingertip...are there any guidelines or standards regarding stock length, bolt or trigger position, cheekrest position, scope eye relief?
i guess the only real adjustment is a recoil pad for length or scope placement.
short of an expensive custom stock, i guess its mostly a matter of trying them all like Goldilocks .