opfor, I might as well throw my $.02 worth in this mix. From the list you gave, I'd vote for the 7mm Mag. I'd buy it in a Remington 700 with a synthetic stock. I'd disagree with the writer who said to replace the trigger. IMHO, Remington has one of the best factory triggers out there. They may come from the factory alittle stiff, but they are easily adjusted, and they will hold their adjustments very well. As far as the stock, I think you'll find that the synthetic, aside from the obvious weather advantage, will eat up some of the recoil. The 7mmMag round, IMO, can be one of the most versatile rounds out there today and able to harvest most anything you care to hunt, shy of the most dangerous game. In addition, compared to the new 'short mags', you won't have problems finding ammo most anywhere you are in this country, should you have a need. I'm not a big fan of the Ruger mainly because of the intrigal scope mounts. I have a hard time spending $70 for a set of quality scope rings. Anyway, that's my nickles worth. Good luck.