What does town hall mean?

As for the action of the rifle i'm pretty sure i want a bolt action. I have read they are more accurate and reliable and easier to maintain. Plus I think they are bad ass imo.

I found a local gun club that is having an open house at the end of this month, i think i will go, shoot some guns and ask some questions. seems like the best way for me to learn hands on currently.

As for the caliber i have been watching videos on youtube and the 30-.06 looks/sounds pretty powerful, i think i could handle it, we will see what happens at this open house first though.