FYI - Just looked at a Walmart ad ... Savage 11 with Nikon Pro Staff 3-9x40mm scope --$497. Mossberg ATR 3-9x40mm scope (no manufacturer mentioned)-- $347. Remington 770 with scope (no info about scope) -- $297. Remington 783, no scope $387. Just an idea of what economy priced rifles are selling for down this way.
Another inexpensive way to get into hunting is the NEF Handy Rifle and a decent scope. This is a simple, no frills at all single shot, break action that usually runs about $225 new. I have experience with only 3. Two were good shooters (243 Win., 308 Win.) and one was just OK (30/30 Win.)
Just a thought.