I agree with mrudy 100%.
If Oaktree34 has the time, looking for a good used "fire sale" rifle is a good way to come across bargains.
Example .... I had been looking for a hunting rifle for my grand son for about a year. About 6 weeks ago I bought a Browning A-Bolt, composite stock in 243 Win. that looked practically unfired. Not a use mark anywhere and the bore was pristine. Guy wanted $350 for it. I wiggled hi dow to $275. That left me plenty of room for a decent scope and still was able to stay around $650. Took it to the range .... 1 MOA shooter all day long. Two years ago bought a Remington 700 BDL in 338 Win. Mag., Redfield scope mounts, Kahles scope. Had been shot 9 times ... $400. Guy was hurting for cash. Deals like this are out there ... just have to be looking and ready.