Far be it for me to try to really talk you out of a new rifle, but you keep mentioning budget this and budget that. Just my opinion, but I would put a nicer scope on you Savage and then use the rest of the money for tags/trips! That way you may be able to make those one/twice in a lifetime trips a thrice or more type of trip. Though I'm far from old, I can't help but think that the memories of the trips would be memorable and more fun to share than a rifle.
point well taken. Thank you all for your input.
