Sounds like you probably need to look at one of the AR10-clones in that case? Not sure what the requirements are in KY, but in WY, minimum legal caliber is .243 for big game.
Seems one of the manufacturers was also making these in the WSM calibers. Think it might have been DPMS?
But, for what one can pay for these things (you're probably looking at an easy $1000 or more), you can buy an awfully fine bolt gun in any number of calibers.
Lots of people call it the "carrying handle". It just seems highly undignified to carry a rifle the same way you would a .... briefcase.