Funny that you suggest the .257 Wby. I haven't seen it mentioned much in the forums I've read, but I do really like the looks of this LSS .257 Wby Mag Anniversary Edition:

http://www.remington.com/products/firearms/premier_dealer_exclusives/model_700_LSS.asp

However, it seems like it might be overkill for what I'm planning to use it for? My understanding is that the caliber is best suited for long range use and I'll most likely be shooting at deer well inside 200 yds.

I thought a lot about going with a 30-06 because that's what all my buddies told me to get, but I decided to pass on the 30 calibers for now so I'll have an excuse to buy a bigger rifle later on.

I did buy a scope already, but I'm not sure how good it is. It's a Cabelas Alaskan Guide 3.5-10x50. It's normally $310, but it was on sale for $145. I think the model is being discontinued and replaced with a new version, which explains why they're on sale. I asked the guy at Cabelas what he thought and he said it was honestly a good value at that price. I figured it would do the job as a first scope. It's seems to be pretty clear and easy to adjust, but what do I know. If it doesn't work out then I'll upgrade to a better scope next year.

So, unless I have a revelation this weekend I'm planning to order the CDL SF 7mm-08 next week. At least that's what I'm telling myself today....