i was going to purchase a 91/30 a couple of years ago for this same purpose. i ended up buying one then upon recieving it i decided it wasn't for me. although they are very affordable there were too many things i didn't like. my main problem however was the safety. i didn't feel comfortable with the operation of it. without it loaded i tested how well the safety worked. if the safety handle wasn't completely over as far as you could turn it the fireing pin would still drop. this made me feel very uncomfortable. i opted to trade this rifle in on my current deer rifle a remington 700. i would hold out and buy a newer gun and i think you'll be alot more happy i know i am.