There are a lot of good bolt guns that can be had for less than $500. Savages are good guns, and so are Remington700's (NOT THE710). But not many can be topped with agood scope for less than $500. Rings will cost about $45, and a good scope willrun around $200. I like Leupolds and Nikons for scopes. As far as calibers,a .25-06 or a .270would serve you very well. They shoot very flat andrecoil is very moderate.