I would think the Tikka in 7-08 would be just about perfect for your environment. I have worked mine (243) hard in SW Texas, dust,sand, wind & rain. Just wipe it off, spray a little corrosion X occasionally and go.

They are very easy to carry, I roughed the stock up on mine some. It was a little slippery to me. Good triggers and they all seem to shoot well.

I have rinsed my magazine out several times with tap water. Can't hurt the dang thing.

I also see no reason why a guy should limit himself to 300 yards with that cartridge. Good bullets and good shot placement always seems to work.

Randy