It depends. Can you use a rifle in all areas you will wish to hunt? If so, a rifle may be the way to go. If you want to hunt in areas that are shotgun only, then you might want to get a slug gun or muzzleloader (the muzzleloading forum on this site is great!).

With regard to Savage vs Rem 700, here is a good thread to read: http://thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=329317

You don't have to save for a really nice gun. In fact, don't be afraid to buy used (but DO take an experienced person with you to check out the gun to make sure its OK). Do your research and narrow your choices down to a few guns, then go to a gun store (or several if you have to), and make your decision based on the gun that feels best to you (I'm assuming by your research you'll have eliminated crap guns). Unless you're regularly hunting deer at over 150 yards away, 1 MOA vs 3 MOA isn't that big a deal, IMO. Don't get me wrong...an accurate gun is important, BUT most guns shoot better than you're able to shoot them. I think that a comfortable, more natural feel is more important in the field than sub MOA accuracy. JMHO. BTW, I think the TC Venture is a pretty good deal for a starter gun.