Originally Posted by Mikey30067

question seems odd you are not really a starter but you asked about a rifle not a caliber so im going to have to say a remmington model 7 or 700 would be my choice preferably a model 7 for the type of hunting i do which is in cover and i do a lot of walking so weight and size matter full size 700 would be nice if your not walking to far and want a longer barrel

the concern you expressed about beating up your rifle my first thought is go synthetic that way you wont worry about beating it up but i for one cant stand synthetic so i would suggest buying a used gun that you wont want to cry when you scratch it or the wood wears from everyday carry

i think its funny people saying you wont beat up your gun hunting, all of my rifles and shotguns that i carry afield have battle scars and worn wood where my hands hold the rifle, i dont throw it at trees or use it as a paddle but any gun you take afield for any amount of time will not look like it did out of the box and if it does maybe you should start hunting harder

if you were looking for a caliber which you never asked but everyone is answering all the choices are viable 25-06 270 280 30-06 are all fine versatile calibers but i would suggest sticking with the 7mm since you already have one you dont need to go out and buy more ammo

find a gun you like and fits you well and designate it as your field gun and years from now you will get enjoyment when your on stand and think about all the scars your gun has and the memorys that go with them remember glass wear is just as important as your gun choice a $1,000 gun with a pos scope doesnt help, figure into your budget and make sure you put the best glass wear on it you can