You should look up your state regulations if you are planning on hunting. Many states have specific items that are either illegal or not allowed. Once you find out what you are allowed to use then the decision is easier. If planning on shooting heavy conical lead (like for elk) T/C rifles with the QLA muzzle may not be the best choice. Some will shoot them but a lot won't. Inexpensive NEF Sidekick is a good choice in the lower price area and still American made and backed by an American company. Parts come from the United States also not from Spain. Older style Knight rifles are available at reduced prices due to the newer ones making them less desirable but they still shoot great. Reliable is usually the shooter responsibility. If the shooting is handled properly almost anything on the market now is reliable.