Me personally, I would never buy a gun, bow or optics off from the internet or any mail order type thing. I have to hold it in my hands, feel how it shoulders, look thru it and see what it looks like with my own eyes. Just a pet peeve of mine.

The three objects I mentioned above are very personal things that need to be evulated against others in my opinion. And see how they fit balance in your hands. I don't just buy something because so and so says I should. I might look at it for those reasons, but not purchase it sight unseen. I love savage and H&R rifles, however I would not expect you to run right out and get one because I said to. I would suggest going and handling one first to see what you think. And while you are in the shop handling it, you might as well get it there. They did pay to stock it after all so you could play with it and smudge it all up. And answer all your questions when you ask them, which I am sure you will.

I might think about it if it was something I was familiar with or had previously looked at. I really like the personal touch though, even if it costs a bit more.

My advice being that you are so new at this, I say you need to find a good gun shop or club even. Get chummy with them and make your purchases there. The amount of information that is available to you in some shops far outweighs the money you will save. If something is not right for you, or you could do better for less they will often tell you. And if something goes wrong you will have support.

Just my opinion any way.

And I am pretty sure if you get a rifle over the net it will have to be shipped to a dealer any way. I think they need to go from dealer to dealer. And I bet Canada is even more strict. And they will most likely charge you for that. I don't know any of that for certain though.

Paul