I would look at the A bolt stainless stalker in 300 WSM. I had shot 270 for about 15 years and bought an Encore in300 WSM about 4 years ago (LOVE IT). I friend of mineand his wife both shoot stainless stalkers in 300 WSM and love them. I am considering one myself but can't justify it right now (we had a baby girl on Thursday). The 300WSM isballistically fairly close to the 7 mm mag without all the kick. That would be my pick.

If you are going to buy a rifle to keep the rest of your life, get the best, get a SAKO.

Thanks for all the info guys.I am still pretty sure i'm going with the browning stainless stalker. I really am leading toward the 7mm rem mag. When i was saying overkill i meant if i was to shoot one within 100 yards or so i just didn't wanna blow a big hole out the exiting side and ruin the meat. Thanks for all the info guys.

What about a .308 also. My buddy has one and he really likes his, whats everyones .2 cents on this caliber in this gun?

Bama I live in Madison Co. Alabama and have hunted here for over 20 years ... I use a 7mm08 and have never had any trouble downing deer here or in Canada .... it has just about the same muzzle velocity as the 30-06 ... just a thought ...

DD

Yep, the 7mm-08 is the perfect deer rifle IMO.

If there is any doubt about not hitting the deer at that range, get a howitzer. lol
Me?, I'll just stick to my little 303 british right now.