Assuming it is your first high power rifle, then 30-06. Together with a 12 gauge and a 22LR you' re set for almost anything in the lower 48. Specialize in rifles chambered for bigger and smaller cartridges AFTER you have acquired this very central mainstay. I have rifles from .223 to .416 including the .270 and the 30-06. If you were talking the shooting out on the prairies then MAYBE a 270; however, for Virginia with the possibility of hunting elk (West) or moose (North) as a future possiblity I' d recommend the 30-06.

I haven' t heard good things about the 710 though the word out there (except on TV) is that they are bad news -- some good advice about 700' s and Savages. Don' t rule out buying something good but used and put your savings towards a Leupold scope.

Never Go Undergunned, Always Check The Sight In, Perform At Showtime,
EKM