The best money I've spent on a rifle was my bone stock, NIB Ruger M77 Hawkeye stainless 358 Win. I think I paid just over $500 for it. It shot well out of the box and has become my all time favorite rifle. With the right bullet, it works for deer, elk, hog, black bear and other game within a 250 yard (maybe a bit more) range. It is an easy round to load and is a pleasure to shoot.
