I'm a long time fan of short barrel .308 bolt guns for deer in the woods and/or treestand hunting. I had a M70 lightweight carbine .308 for over 20 years, until the accuracy started to go south. I still have a M600 Mohawk .308, and a Ruger American stainless .308 carbine. For woods hunting, I've never had a shot longer than maybe 125 yards. Most shots have been under 100 yards.
There's a good selection of short .308's available these days including the Weatherby Vanguard S2 youth, TC Venture compact, Ruger American carbine, Tikka compact, Howa Ranchland, Rem M7, Rem 783, M70 Classic Compact, and the ultimate being the Sako Finnlight. I consider a 20" barrel ideal.
I'd buy a Finnlight if it would not lead to a divorce.
