RE: deer gun questoin
I am also looking into buying a new deer rifle. Over the past few months I've been doing a lot of research on many different forums on theneton the different types of rifles. It really seems like the Savage line up is getting A LOT of positive reviews.
I've read SEVERAL posts where guys actually admit that their friend's Savage is shooting tighter groups than their Ruger's and A-Bolt's. It takes a lot of balls to actually admit that a cheaper and "less" quality rifle is outshooting yours.
After reading your post and the other guys description of where you hunt, in my opinion, you wouldn't go wrong with anyof the calibers that you listed.
Here in SC, the terrian is about the same. Unless you are hunting a big field or clear cut, most shots are going to be under 100 yards.
In my opinion, in both of our cases, the best round that I can think of would be the .308win. Not taking away from any of the rest. I have a .270win now and love it. If you want my opinion b/t the 30'06 and .270. I would say the .270win or .270wsm hands down. The .308win is extremely accurate and flat shooting. It is one of the most efficent rounds there is. It is also a short action round, so the rifle is lighter and would probaby fit you a lot better.
If coming up with the money for a new gun is a problem. Don't hesitate to check local pawn shops. You would be very surprised at the rifles/guns that people pawn.
Another thing about the Savage line up is that you can chose from A LOT of different calibers. When I finally chose to take the time to buy a new rifle, it is going to be the Savage Weather (something). Its the stainless model. In either .308win (which is what i want, but its hard to find b/c I am a lefty) or a .300wsm. The 300wsm is more than I will ever need here in SC, but I am having a hard time finding the .308win in the lefty model.
Hope that i've helped you.