For your purpose, I would have to concur with eldeguello that it is hard to argue against the international reputation established by the 6.5x55mm. And don't count it out because I think there are a few factory rifles out there that are chambered for it. In fact, I am having my "rifle of a lifetime" built on a Mauser '98 action in this caliber. I have a bad shoulder and this should fill the bill perfectly for my needs.

When it comes down to the most accurate rifles I have ever seen, ironically, all three have been chambered for various 6.5mm cartridges. One Swede, one 6.5mm/.284 wildcat and one 6.5mm/.308 wildcat (now factory loaded as the .260 Rem). There are also plenty of factory rifles available in .260 Rem and you may want to give this round serious consideration, as well.

Two other contenders I would also make note of are the .257 Roberts and the 7x57mm Mauser. With factory ammo both are all-day shooters and both respond very well to handloading. In fact, a properly loaded 7x57 is suitable for all hooved game animals in North America.

If I were buying a factory rifle to suit your needs, I would get either the Winchester Classic Featherweight in 6.5x55 Swedish or the Ruger M77RFP MkII in .260 Rem. If you want a wood stock, go with the Winny, synthetic stock, go with the Ruger. Get the barrel recrowned and a trigger job and you've got your mild-recoiling tack driver. <img src=icon_smile_approve.gif border=0 align=middle>

Good Dogwork and Good Hunting