You don't mention where you live or how far most shots are taken in your area. If you are going to hunt out west where long shots are common you'll need to learn how to shoot long range, and a bolt action rifle chambered in .25-06 or 7mm-08 would work good. If you're hunting in "the woods" like most of us, my favorite is the Marlin 336 in either 30-30 or 35 Remington. You can get a Marlin 336W at Walmart for $379, or you could get a 336C with a walnut stock for approximately $459. You also don't need a super expensive scope with a 50mm lens to kill a deer at 200 yards and under. My 336SS is topped with a Bushnell Elite 3200 2-7x32mm. Redfield also has a 2-7x33mm and either one can be bought for about $150. It's hard to beat the price of 30-30 ammo, I buy the Federal for $12 a box. It won't hurt your shoulder or your wallet.