I have close to $600 in "Cabelas Points" via my Cabelas CC. I want to get a new rifle. I currently have a Winchester Featherweight in 6.5x55, so I want something that won't duplicate it.
I'm not interested in benchrest, tactical, or other "gun games". I mainly use rifles for big game hunting. My 6.5x55 will easily handle deer, and will probably be fine against black bears with the proper load (current load may even be fine, but I suspect my bullets are too soft). Elk may or may not be on the menu, as would be boar. African game or the big bears (griz, brownies, etc) aren't likely to be a factor in the near or even medium-term future (if ever).
I do need a centerfire rifle suitable for my daughters if they ever want to hunt with me, but my 6.5x55 could fill that role if this rifle is too big for them.
My requirements:
30cal or greater if fixed caliber (suitable for large game)
bolt or single shot.
No leverguns
No semiautos
Nothing with impossible to find reloading components or data
I was thinking about something like an Encore Rifle so i could get barrels for multiple calibers (maybe a 260Rem for the girls and a 45-70 for me), but I got to fondle the Ruger 44/77 bolt rifle Friday night. This thing is too cute. It weighs nothing and is tiny. With its stainless steel metal and composite stock, it won't require a lot of care. I currently own two 44mag revolvers, reload, and even cast for the caliber, so I could do all kinds of things with the 44/77. It's plenty for any East Coast game animals. The open sights make it ideal for hunting thickets and such, but the excellent Ruger scope mounting system means it'll be easy to pop a scope on if I'm in the stand. The size and light weight means it'll be easier for my girls to handle, while my handloading means I can tailor a load to their recoil-sensitivity requirements.
My budget is up to $1k including the $600 credit at Cabelas. I have optics (scope and/or red dot), so that doesn't factor into the budget.
Thoughts?
Chris