re: Deer hunting rifle on $700 budget

Steve,
Sorry to hear about your shoulder. As far caliber selection for a "reduced" recoil deer rifle, I'd suggest 260 Rem, 7-08 Rem or 308 Win. How does one "reduce" recoil? 1. Reduce bullet weight; reduce powder charge; increase gun weight. The aforementioned 308 based cartridges will use less powder than the 30-06 based cartridges (25-06, 270 Win, 280 Win and 30-06) and recoil less. 260 Rem ammo is hard to find. 7-08 is easier to find, but sometimes still problematic; factory reduced recoil loads are available. 308 is ubiquitous and also has reduced recoil loads. I'd look at 7-08 first and 308 second. I have handguns in both 308 and 7-08. Although I've had hte 308 much longer, the 7-08 is fast becoming a favorite. Whatever you get, I'd start out w/ reduced recoil loads until you know your shoulder is up to the task.

The regular Savage rifles are not nearly as inexpensive as they used to be, but my personal experience is that they're certainly very accurate. If you come across one at an attractive price, jump on it. I have no personal experience w/ the Axis nor the American, but have read good reviews on both. I know someone w/ a very accurate Mossberg rifle. I once had a Howa and found it to be very accurate, as well. It hasn't been mentioned so far, but you may want to consider the Marlin bolt action rifle. My personal experience w/ one has been very favorable. I bought one in 270 Win at a good price just to have around as a loaner/backup deer rifle. I've got a grand total of $370-380 dollars in it, including Pentax scope, Weaver base and Burris Signature Z Rings. It shoots 3 shot groups less than 1" at 100 yds w/ both Winchester and Remington ammo. A rifle/scope package will save you money also. The scope won't be top notch, but should be serviceable for at least a few years until you can spend more money if needed.

Go to a couple stores, handle them and decide which features you like and don’t like (e.g. 2 position safety vs. 3 position safety, etc). Keep us updated.