[Murfdeezy]

Hey everybody,

My friends go hunting often. I have never been much of a hunter myself. Both because I couldn't have guns in the house, and because I never had the opportunity to hunt anything bigger than deer. I am not a huge venison fan. It is okay. I went to an NFL draft party last year...that I attend annually. One of the guys brought some moose that he got himself, up in Maine. It was the best thing I have ever tasted, and I have been invited to tag along on his future trips......so I have some learning to do, I guess. There is also a great place up around the corner from where we go camping every year that offers guided mosse and black bear hunts. Maybe a good place to learn a little bit, and have a good time. I just love being up there. Anyway, I was hoping to pick up an affordable hunting rifle. I want it to be composite, and probably bolt action. I would also like it to be fairly versatile, and be able to take down larger size game. I am not a big game hunter, nor will I ever be taking down grizzlies at 500 yds or anything ridiculous like that. So take it easy on me will ya. In Rhode Island we cannot use rifles at all. A Rhode Island deer rifle is a slug gun with a scope, so an actual rifle will be used primarily for larger game up north. I want to be able to take down all deer size game up to moose size game at anywhere from 200-300 yds maximum. I was looking at 7mm Rem Mag. I was thinking maybe a Savage 110 in a 7mm Rem Mag looks like a capable rifle and a good price. I have heard good things about the round and the rifles, but I do not have my heart set on either. I was hoping you all could help put me on the right track. Any input you are willing to give me would be appreciated. Thanks for the help.

[stalkingbear]

You're on the right track. You don't need a magnum to kill moose/black bear at reasonable distance. I'd suggest a 30-06 in either a Savage or a Marlin XL-7. You can get the Marlin for about 300$. Top it with a decent 3x-9x (150-200$), load it with good tough 180gr bullet loads and you're ready to go.

[dteed4094]

2X what bear said.

[Murfdeezy]

thanks guys. I found a savage 110 7mm Rem Mag with a bushnell 3x9 scope and camo synthetic stock for about $400. I thought that was a pretty good deal. It is slightly used, but it is in great shape. I will look at some 30-06 too, and see what I can find. Thanks again.

[375shooter]

Originally Posted by Murfdeezy

thanks guys. I found a savage 110 7mm Rem Mag with a bushnell 3x9 scope and camo synthetic stock for about $400. I thought that was a pretty good deal. It is slightly used, but it is in great shape. I will look at some 30-06 too, and see what I can find. Thanks again.

A 7mm Rem Mag is a good choice, although 30-06, 308, 280, etc. are also fine. The most important thing is to shoot the rifle a lot to become familiar with it. This includes shooting from field positions such as sitting, kneeling and standing. A little bit of practice makes a big difference. The practice will increase your confidence level.

[amoroque]

Originally Posted by Murfdeezy

thanks guys. I found a savage 110 7mm Rem Mag with a bushnell 3x9 scope and camo synthetic stock for about $400. I thought that was a pretty good deal. It is slightly used, but it is in great shape. I will look at some 30-06 too, and see what I can find. Thanks again.

I think that combo you found (7mm/Bushnell scope) will get the job done and an affordable price.
If it is possible, I might suggest shooting any firearm before you purchase to make sure you like it.

[jpattersonnh]

I used a Savage110 7mm Rem Mag for years. Mine wears a Weaver V10. More important than the cartridge, is the bullet itself. 140gr will do the trick, but stay away from ballistic tips. JP