AlphaHunter88
New member
I'm new to the forum, and this is my first post here so any and all feedback would be greatly appreciated. I'm buying a back-up/alternate deer rifle and my LGS has 3 used guns that fit the bill for what I'm looking for and all are priced from $275-$330. First up is a Mossberg branded 1500 (Howa clone) in 7mm REM Mag. This is the least likely buy, although it is the most inexpensive at $275. From a 24" barrel a factory 7 Mag load is not much more than a louder, stiffer recoiling.270 WIN, and the factory ammo is ultra expensive. Next choice is a Marlin XL7S (black/stainless) in .30-06. I love the X series Marlins and I had one in .308 that I could kick myself for ever getting rid of. It is a newer Remlin, not the original JM stamped Marlin-made gun but it is still new and only fired about 3x. A guy bought it for his son's first deer rifle and immediately took it back after the 30-06 pounded the poor kid. This gun still has it's factory stickers and looks like it never left the shop for $299. Finally my other option is a Savage 116 weather warrior (black/stainless) in 30-06 for $329. This gun is only in slightly more used condition than the Marlin. My only real concern is that although the XL7 is a great gun (best for the money in my opinion,) they are now discontinued and how would that affect parts availability in the future? I also love a good Savage and I've never been disappointed with one other than the terrible trigger on the Axis. Keep in mind I'm not trying to have a perfect match grade rifle. I'm not too worried about sub-MOA or having a nice safe queen. I want an accurate enough gun to shoot well and be reliable in the elements. Please offer your opinions!