I got a 270 when i was 12. I have shot 5 deer with it and i am taking it elk hunting this year. I think that is a perfact caliber. Not too much kick, not too big for deer but big enough for elk if you would ever move up to the big leagues. I dont know how much you plan on spending but i bought a Remington Model 700 BDL in .270 and it was the best thing i ever did.