You all are bringing up good points.
Question:
Which 223? The first one that pops in my head is a Ruger American.
The bolt 30-30 has been one I've been toying with for over a decade. I think the only thing that stops me is the bad luck I've had with 30 WCF in the past. Savage 340's are still good?
I'm intrigued by the Ruger 77/44. Would you all suggest that over one of the older semi's or levers? I like the Marlins and the Rugers.
Shotguns: Yeah,I really don't know where to get fitted for one. I had a heck of a time, early on, with my Rem 1100. I finally got it pointing where it needed to go. I may hold off on that for now.
Stainless handguns are another good idea. I sometimes think a Ruger Super Redhawk would be cool to own. I have a Super Blackhawk.