elkivory,
There is likely more semi-auto deer rifles per capita in WI than anywhere else - they're a darling for a deer rifle here for some reason.
While I'm quite partial to Remington 700's, I'd be hard pressed to use a Remington semi-auto even on a dare. They've earned the jam-o-matic moniker in spades.
If going semi-auto, for me, it's the BAR or bust. (Remington vs BAR)