Since your friend already chose his caliber I won't make a recommendation. I have never used a .270 personally but have no issues with it and if that's what he wants then who am I to say otherwise.
As far as rifles, a used or on sale Tikka would be a great choice for around $500 or my local Wal Mart has Remington 700 package with a synthetic stock and crappy scope for $399. I would get that and sell the scope to someone for 20 bucks and get away from it. Put your Leupold on it and send him to the woods. You can't get a Remington action for that price.
I have a buddy who bought one of the Wal Mart Remingtons in 7mm mag and it shoots better than any rifle I own, and I own a few. I keep trying to get it from him but he won't sell.
Just my opinions but there are tons of good ones above mine.
