RE: low hunting calibers?
I'd say go with .260rem or 7mm-08, both nice light recoiling cartridges. You can get a NEF handi-rifle single shot for around $200 (I have 2), they are nice little guns. I agree that the 30-30 is also a nice deer gun if you are going to stay within 100-150 yards, but other calibers are more versitle.