the mossberg atr is basically supposed to keep up with the lower line of guns, but i have heard so many bad thing about it i would just stay away from it. The one i can speak for is the XL7. I have mine chambered in .270. your pretty crazy on buying a 25-06, ammo is only going to get more expensive. My .270 really like rem cor lokts. it prefers the 150 gr. The accu trigger or what ever its called is really nice. Its a pretty light rifle too. shooting off the bench i can get 1" groupings. i cant recommend this gun enough for someone on a budget. i wish i would have bought mine in stainless or a wood stock. Another thing is the recoil pad is very nice. hope you find a gun you like!