Another thumbs up for the 30/06 Spr. cartridge. I would say one of, if not "the", best one gun selection. This is a long proven 30 cal. round that can be loaded with a wide range of bullet weights. Most of the 30.06 rifles that I have set up for myself or helped set up for buddies grouped pretty darn good with bullet weights in the 165 gr. to 180 gr. weight. If I were you, I'd start there. Try as many different factory rounds as you can practically afford. Usually 1 or 2 will group better than the others.

Sounds like you are set on a bolt action and I agree with that 100%. In general a bolt action is rugged, accurate and simple to keep clean. As far as maker .... you can hardly go wrong with any of the factory rifles out there today. Remington, Ruger, Browning, Styer, Savage, Winchester, Tikka, etc. all offer very good shooting rifles. Most of the time what a person choses is the one that feels good and has the look that they like.

As far as the Model 700 .... long time proven design. I have 2 (300 Win. Mag. and 338 Win. Mag.). I have been able to find a load for each thht grups superb. You should be able too.