Since you'll be hunting in the thick stuff where a second shot seems unlikely- what about a single shot? I too have been considering the many different options out there. I settled on a H&R single in .308. For the price of a decent bolt action rifle I can have my .308 and two or three other calibers since the barrels switch out. Also gives me the option of shotgun and muzzle if I want to go there. As for which caliber, that's your choice. I went with .308 because of its reputation. To me a .243 seems a bit small but then I took a nice 8-point last year with a .257 Roberts. One shot one deer. I hope this helps. Let us know what you decide.