For an all around hunting rifle I would get a bolt action, Savage model MKIIJTV to be precise, you should be able to pick one up for around 325.00 to 350.00 max. It has a laminated thumbhole stock blued action and a heavy varmint barrel, clip magazine and accu-trigger. A very good looking, accurate rifle, one you would keep and pass down through generations, but thats just my oppinion!, I wouldnt rule out a .17 either!.