First off, thanks for all the great replies. I have looked at the 30-06, but I feel the 270 is fairly close to it, right? I just want something that has knock down power for larger animals. I am going to put that simms recoil pad on it and hope that helps.

This gun comes with a scope, but it looks really cheap. I know I'm going to need better rings and a better scope. I have been thinking of getting a leupold, just unsure of which model. Any thoughts on a scope model?? Thanks again fellas.