jimmyp-
My only suggestion would be to consider a rifle with a different "form factor" than what you're using now. No sense duplicating what you've got, just chambered for another cartridge with similar killing power under your hunting conditions. Go for something noticably lighter, or more suitible for long-range, whatever. You might find another facet of the game that appeals to your blue-collar nature.
Not long ago, I went outside the box, or my box anyway, and got one of Boxer/Stick's SWFA 6x42 MQs. Now I know what all the hoopla's about. Great scope at a great price.
