Need Help Picking a Rifle- Deer and Hogs in East TN

I would go with a lever in .44 magnum or 30/30.

But whichever caliber you may choose (if a lever) get a trapper 16" bbl. version.
 
There are alot of good ones you left out. But if that is what you like then thats what to look for. Just mself I would go with the Browning .308 lever for a few reasons. The big one and this is just me it is magazine feed no going thru the bore to unload. I had it in the .308 and gave it to my son in law for a present one year. It was a very nice rifle. I relaoad so I was able to get some nice groups out of it. It is also a very nice looking rifle. But give a few others a look, I am not trying to change your mind, because we all like certain things. The 30-06, 270 and few others are nice rifles also. Good luck, have fun, and keep it safe!
 
I'd go with the Marlin 30-30 myself. They're great rifles and I took my first deer with one. Don't disregard the Winchester 94's in 30-30 either. They're a little lighter and faster handling and above all else they're Winchesters!
 
All your choices look good, really your call in this case.

Great to hear about hogs in E. TN! I'm thinking about retiring there and love me some hog hunting!!!!!
 
ridge running rifles

I've hunted a bit in the blue ridge country of N. VA and PA and hiked quite a bit of same in NC and TN. One thing to keep in mind is portability. There are plenty of steep, rock strewn, laurel choked areas and a shorter lighter, rifle will have its advantages.

The win/marlin are tops in that department. The marlins are easier to maintain/clean, and scope easier than many of the Wins out there.

You may not be satisfied w/ 30-30 power, though its plenty for what you are going to do. Thus the .308 BLR might be a good compromise.

I'm thinking a full length 7600 is too much rifle to tote up and down all day. A carbine version might be interesting , especially on running hogs in front of dogs. But it will be heavier than the BLR or a Winlin.

That is pretty country, I've trout fished in Unicoi county for years.
 
I know this is an old thread, just though I'd post an update. 336's were everywhere at a gun show last spring. Lots of good deals to be had. Picked up a really clean one manufactured in 1980 for 200$. Put a redfield 2-7 scope on top. It shoots great.

Thanks for all of the good advice.
 
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