Don't overlook the 700 mountain rifle.
Back in the 90's, I picked up a blued/ synthetic stock 270 for $250. It became the beater rifle that I started my junior hunters on. I'd use the low recoil rounds to get them started and later work them up to standard 130 gr ammo.
The rifle will still give me 3 shots groups under 1/2" at 100 yds with Federal Fusion.
For packing or deer drives, its the one my family all tries to claim.
Today, it wears a laminate stock and a VX2 3-9. We all agree its the one gun thats not for sale.
I'm not down on Ruger, I hunt whitetails with my 7mm Mag more than any other rifle. But it is heavier than the Mt rifle.
