Pine Tree,
A backup rifle is a good idea... only needed one a couple of times for scopes that have failed. An extra scope sighted in with detachable mounts would have sufficed and been a lot easier to carry in the truck.
I'm in the .308 Win. and 30-06 camp since you don't reload. Or the 6.5 Creed in a different rifle. All three calibers have reasonably priced ammunition.
I'd take a look at the Tikka T3X, lighter than your Howa, probably be just as accurate (I've had a couple). The detachable magazines may be a plus where you hunt.
Always happy to hear from folks that are getting into hunting.
Jerry
