With a $1500 budget, I would look for a Sauer 200 in 270, 308, or 30-06 and top it with a Zeiss Conquest 3-9. There are a few Sauer 200's on Gunbroker now that can be had for around $1000.
http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/Vie...?Item=84424437
http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/Vie...?Item=84425895