The price sounds good on the Savage, but I'd HIGHLY recommend getting the AccuTrigger: it really is that good. I've got a Mark II BV in .22lr, and that trigger is super sweet.

I shoot 150 to 200 rounds offhand through thatrifle for every 20 I shoot in my .30-'06. Oh, yeah, "ditto" everyone's suggestion about hitting it hard with your .22! It works your technique while going easy on your pocketbook... and your ears... and your shoulder...

Yes, the .25-06 is between the .243 and the .270, both caliber-wise and recoil-wise.Here's what our internet gun guru has to say on the subject: http://www.chuckhawks.com/what_to_expect.htm

That cartridgewould work quite well on the hogs, 'yotes, antelope,& whitetails. Mr. Chuck has some really kind words for the .25-.06 about halfway down this treatise: http://www.chuckhawks.com/ideal_deer_antelope_rifle.htm

AND... a .25-06 would allow you plenty of caliber-spacing so you can buy a whompin' big magnum many years down the road when you go to AK to face down the unkillable coastal brown bears!

Take Care,

FC