Thanks for the replies Gentlemen.

Rick, what length is your BLR 358? Any prob' s sourcing ammo? I will for sure have to check out Gunsmart, just a short trip from where I live anyway. The price sure sounds reasonable.

Bob, looks like I' ll be needing something that can handle the cold weather (snow conditions ). Temperature was something that I didn' t consider until you mentioned it. Thx.

dep214, was it just e-mail customer service over at Browing that you had a problem with or their customer service in general. I' m not sure I can order from them direct to have a rifle shipped up here in Canada.

John Y, I think I will indeed go and try a few, there is a rifle range/guns shop not far from here too. I' ve never owned or shot a lever gun. I' ve had BB guns as a kid and have shot a.22 cal at a friends farm but never a higher caliber hunting firearm. Great suggestion.

Woodseye, I' m not sure on the availabilty of the Savage 99 and ammo up here but will check it out too. Thx.