I've read the other Remington/Savage post. I am currently looking at the Remington 700 versus a Savage package. Are the scopes on Savage packages any good, or should I go with the Remington all together anyway?
The savage I have purchased has a scope on it I cant recal what brand but I love it. its not top of the line but it definatly does the job. Out west where you will be hunting you might want a more powerful scope for longer down range shots.
Most Savage packages come with a Simmons Scope 3x9. Not the best of scopes but as mentioned, they work. I was going to upgrade but i haven't found a reason to as of YET. I am sure i will, but for the money Gun, Scope, sling... it's hard to go wrong.
Yeah ive got the model 16 and its got the simmons 3-9 scope and so far so good i havent had any problems with it and ive shot a muley and an elk this year with it.
It will work as others have mentioned but some of us feel the scope is as important as the rifle wearing it!!
I'd be buying one without and then putting on the best you can afford, if that means saving a little longer to scope it so be it. Since it sounds like you'll be in the mountains doing a lot of hunting I'd want a quality optic held on by a quality ring and bases system.