IMO you are being too picky. Besides, do you really want to put a $7-800 rifle, plus scope, in the hands of a young hunter and expect them not to bang it up? Go Stevens or used. you can always trade up later.
yes i would hand them a $700-800 rifle, but not a $1500 rifle. things get dinged sometimes, unless you keep them in the safe. i rode my steyr down the hill last season like it was a sled... ouch!
