Thanks for the help.

I have already bought the scope, a Leupold VX2 3-9X40. It was on sale a few weeks ago, so I cashed in. The $500 range was just a guide for the gun itself.

I understand your argument on buying the "right gun" not the "most affordable". Where I hunt, I don't face too many 300 yard shots. I could take them if I wanted, however they just aren't encouraged. I have contemplated the 7mm, however.

I will be spending some time with a friend of mine from So. Texas later in the spring. That will give me a chance to shoot just about any caliber I want, as he and his dad have assembled a small armory over the years.

My question is this: Would I be better off with the stainless finish over the blued? What are the practical advantages, if any? Academy sells the A-Bolt in blued finish for $509. I can get the stainless at a local gun store for $684 (I think). Spending more for the stainless just means that I wait a little longer to save up the cash.

I'd really like to hear your opinions on the stainless v. blued.