I like the 7mm Rem Mag because I already have one so I would be able to use the same ammo in the new gun as well as the older one so my son can use it. I considered the 7mm WSM but there does not seem to be as many options when it comes to bullets both in type and manufacturer. I am thinking that Savage fits the bill the most and might just accept the bullets it has available. I think the literature says that it can be unloaded with the safe on but I am not sure. I know the price is right and its reputation as an accurate gun is good enough for me. I am not going to be shooting it 400 yards so I do not think it would be any worse than my Remington which is good enough to feel sure I can kill a deer if I can get the cross hairs on it.

I will have to look at the X bolt but I wonder if it comes in left handed. Also Browning is a bit more expensive so changing the stock puts me in the price range where I can consider a Weatherby which in my experience is a great shooting gun.