I think I would look at the .50 caliber Omega by Thompson Center Arms. Also some of the Knight line of rifles such as the Revolution have the same break open action that you found interesting in the Optima. Non breakopen rifles such asthe Disc Elite are a good choice. Thompson Center and Knight of course are high end but not really as bad as many think they are. Someone was posting about an Omega that was around $300.00 which would be a good selection. Also these companies rate very high in the customer service and support which many find is a very important purchaseaspect of rifle purchases. Although, CVA and Traditionsalso have high marks in the customer service department as well.

I've read so many posts on different rifles with high ratings from owners, I guess the field is wide open. I personally would look for one with a good warranty, quality parts, quality material, and a good track record for accuracy. The T/C and Knight both are there.

The best thing you can do is get to a sporting good store that carries a wide selection of rifle makes and models. Then try pulling them to your shoulder and see how they fit. See how they line up with your eye. Check the length of the stock and drop. All of this is important. Then you pick out what you like best and go from there. From there I guess it is a matter of depth of the pocket book.