Check out Rossi or H&R, these are single shot rifles that cost between $200 & $250. One of these paired with a Bushnell elite or a Nikon buckmasters scope and you would be out about $400. Another option is a Savage bolt action that comes with a Simmons scope for around $400. I would recommend that you updated the Simmons scope within a season or two for a better quality scope. And no, it not unusual to spend more for the scope than the gun. Check your local gun shop for a good used setup also.