Theres a couple things to keep in mind when purchasing a new gun, main factor being fit. Try out some different guns in the models youre looking at find one that fits you perfect. Also another thing to keep in mind is what kind of terrain are you going to be hunting, whats your longest shot going to be? Bein i live onely a few miles from you Ironic aint it,I know pretty much all of our area. I live no more than 10 minutes from you. South of Neillsville. If youre hunting our area and are hunting heavy woods id say the 30-06 would suit your needs just fine. If youre going to be shooting across any open fields id say .270 or .308 would be more than enough in our area.