re: First hunting rifle. Stainless barrel? And caliber question.

The caliber question is easy. .308 is good for elk, .30-06 is a little bit better. Theyre very close on paper with the 06 being able to sling slightly heavier bullets at the cost of slightly more recoil. No caliber is too big for hogs.

Stainless is a personal choice. Do you see yourself hunting in the rain and not being diligent about taking care of your gun? If so stainless is worth it. If you want a pretty rifle and you'll take good care of it than blue/wood is fine. It just requires a wipe down after a rainy hunt.