Matt,
Welcome to the fire. There are some great people here with a ton of great knowledge and a willingness to share their experiences. I live in Wasilla as well. Let me first say thank you for your service to this country and please stay safe over there.
I have been a long time fan of the 35 Whelen. I picked up a pre 64 model 70 in 30-06 10 years ago that had been converted to left handed and had Cliff Labounty rebore it to 35 Whelen. It thinks it's a target rifle and shoots way better than I ever hoped for. Reboring is an option you might consider. If you pick up a good 30-06 either new or used that shoots well, it is likely to shoot well as a rebore. JES Reboring does a great job from what I am told and has a very quick turn around time and for less money than a rebarrel. Which ever way you go the 35 Whelen is one of the finest North American game cartridges in existence.
Shoot me a pm when you get back to Wasilla. I'll buy you lunch and we can shoot the breeze about 35 Whelens.
Mart
