Here's my recommendation for your first rifle.


I like the model 700 because everyone "works" on them and there are more aftermarket parts for them then any other production rifle.


I recommend you pay a good gunsmith and get the barrel hand lapped, a trigger job done and replace the recoil pad (i use Pachmayr's).


These three things are the least expensive way to accurize your new rifle.


http://www.remington.com/products/fi...00-sps-dm.aspx

I love detachable magazines (I always buy a extra magazine and keep the extra one loaded and ready to go).


http://www.remington.com/products/fi...stainless.aspx


I always buy stainless, "if" it has a detachable magazine (in this case, it doesn't).



First best caliber would be .243 Winchester for a beginner.

http://www.gunnersden.com/index.htm.243winchester.html


Second choice (for a beginner) would be that .270 Winchester.


http://www.gunnersden.com/index.htm.270winchester.html



Either rifle or either caliber will last you a lifetime.


Buy +/- four different ("brands") boxes of ammo, all with the same "grain" bullet and some shoot-N-C targets and your gun will tell you which ammo it likes best.


Solid rest and practice....................beware of the one gun hunter (usually very good with it !!!)