RE: beginner needs help
Some inexpensive (not cheap) rilfes that come to mind are Savage, Tikka, Marlin, Mossberg, and even the Weatherby Vangard. These can all be had for probably closer to $500.
But like was posted earlier, don't hesitate about looking on the used shelves. Expecially this time of year. For some reason guy trade in perfectly good rifles for new ones come hunting season.