Back at age 35 I purchased my first rifle larger than .22 cal; I have since sold all centerfires in favor of blackpowder sidelocks, but that is another story.

However, were I to ever change my mind I would lean toward:

1) synthetic stock-because in reality this is a tool to be used

2) .270 cal- had a .30-.06 w/ no complaints but it seemed overkill

3) Benelli R1- finances permitting (it just shouldered so sweet!)

4) purchase 1 higher quality scope vs a few low cost ones...