redrider,
-- good choice of caliber. I am a big fan of the .308 myself.
-- choice of rifle is fine too. Some likeone brand over another. That is a good choice for an entry levelrifle.
-- being a left handed shooter IMHO you would like a right handed model better as I explained in my last post. Unless the stock you are getting is thumbholed for a lefty. Oh, and in my experience, left handed models usually cost a little more. Or at least they did 5 years ago.
-- personally, i really don't care what stock you get. most don't, if you like it, get it
--it's a package deal. just as well for now. You are definatly going to want to replace whatever comes on it. I strongly suggest you stay away from teh leupold. That is just my opinion. I have a MK 4 rightnow and I am really not happy with it. Between the 2 you listed, the Zeis is for sure a better product.



Just give a little thought to the left handed / righthanded arguement. Whatever you finally get, congratulations. Be safe and Have fun