Savage is probably the best "budget" rifle on the market. If you want to spend a little more and end up with a rifle that is a little better in the cosmetic department and built for abuse then look at the Ruger 77 Mk II. As far as cartridge goes, I love my 270 Win and 7mm-08 Rem, but if I were buying a deer rifle today I would look at the 260 Rem.