First time poster, been doing some research this morning and came across your forum.

Basically I'm buying my 4th gun, 3rd rifle and I've decided to get a 30-06.

The general consensus I seem to get from you all based on other threads is that you really like Tikkas and Savages when it comes to quality cheap 30-06s. I didn't see any mention of the Marlin XL7?

I did some looking into the Marlin for the last day or two, a new one that comes with Weaver Classic Extreme 2.5-10x50 scope in warne QD lever rings brand new for around $400 here in Missouri.

Another gun I saw, used with no scope a Mossberg 4x4 for $440 but I could probably get it around $400. What do you all think of the Marlins and Mossberg 30-06s?

"Most" modern bolt action rifles will out shoot "most" hunters.

Buy the one with the features you want & confirm by getting the one that fits you best.

The optics you use are far more important !

The most important is to find the bullet your new gun likes the best and then it's just a matter of practice.

Take a look at these;

http://www.ableammo.com/catalog/weatherby-vanguard-rifle-vgs270nr4o-winchester-griptonite-stock-stainless-finish-p-121954.html

http://www.ableammo.com/catalog/marlin-bolt-action-rifle-xl7270-winchester-black-stock-stainless-steel-finish-p-117249.html

http://www.ableammo.com/catalog/ruger-hawkeye-bolt-action-rifle-hmk77rfp-7119-winchester-black-synthetic-stock-stainless-steel-finish-p-99578.html

http://www.ableammo.com/catalog/tikka-lite-bolt-action-rifle-jrtb318-winchester-bolt-action-black-synthetic-stock-stainless-steel-finish-p-90826.html

http://www.ableammo.com/catalog/remington-stainless-bolt-action-rifle-7267-winchester-black-synthetic-stock-stainless-steel-finish-p-86358.html

http://www.ableammo.com/catalog/howa-1500-rifle-whogue-stock-hgr62612-winchester-bolt-action-black-synthetic-stock-stainless-steel-finish-p-99595.html

http://www.ableammo.com/catalog/savage-116fcss-weather-warrior-rifle-17799-bolt-action-black-stock-stain-steel-finish-wdbm-p-86703.html

http://www.ableammo.com/catalog/thompson-center-icon-weathershield-rifle-5547-winchester-synthetic-stock-weathershield-finish-p-112298.html

We have a very early model XL7 with a wood stock. Very nice feel to the rifle, and the stock makes it look alot nicer. Most guns are capable of very good accuracy as Sheridan said. The things that will make the difference, trigger pull, the quality of scope and mounts used, and the shooter. I have a pair of winchesters that defy what M700 owners say, and will throw bullets in the same hole at 100yards. Handle as many guns as you can, figure out what features you want, ie tang safety, three position safety, detachable magazine, etc, then pick your gun. Just make sure, you put a good scope mounts, and good glass on it.

I have one of the first XL7's in 30.06. Love the rifle, it shoots very well. I would suggest looking into one. I haven't heard anything good about the 4x4.

THOSE Golden Words of Wisdom should be emblazened in gold on the homepage of EVERY hunting site on the web!
HL

Agreed,i,ve said that about my rifles for many years.
One thing with a new one is how manufacturer recommends barrel break in for greatest accuracy down the road.