$1,500 is a great budget and you can definitely get a quality set up! I'm sure you have heard the saying about buying quality equipment once instead of cheap equipment several times over. In the long run, quality is less expensive. So here are some points to consider:

A bolt action rifle is the simplest to use and most accurate. I would stay with a bolt.

I know you are going to hunt deer in Tenn, but chances are you will eventually hunt other game. Get a caliber that will allow you to do so. Instead of a .243, get a .270 or 30-06 both of which are very versatile.

A couple of years ago I decided I wanted a 300 Win Mag for Elk hunting (you can easily shoot an elk with a .270 or 30-06 btw). I looked online and purchased a brand new Weatherby Vanguard Series 2 in 300WM from a gun shop in Texas. The gun/shipping cost me $505 plus $35 for the FFL background check. Take a look and the Vanguard S2 as its a very well made and accurate rifle with sub MOA guarenteed. Mine had a synthetic stock, but the do offer wood.

I then put Warne bases and rings on it for about $75.

Now here is the kicker, I purchased a new Swarovski Z3 4-12x50 scope from a camera shop for $800 w/ free overnight shipping.

For just over $1,400 I bought an accurate rifle with incredible optics. Deals are out there if you do a little digging. Another quality rifle is the Winchester Model 70 if you don't like the Vanguard.

Good luck!