re: Looking for recommendations on a bolt action rifle.

My Tikka is a tack driver but I got it years ago when they were $500. For Tikka MSRP these days, I think Bergara is the best gun at those price points. Also look at Savage 110 rifles. I'd rather have a 30-06 than 308. More powder to sling those 180gr partitions at elk and big muleys. If only for deer in SE USA, 308 is fine.