There is something to be said about the points you made. Problem is if the op is looking for a compact which gives a 12.5" length of pull vs the standard 13.75 30-06 isnt readily available. Really 3030 isnt either. 243, 7mm08, 308, 6.5 are the primarily available rifles in that size. Ive been pleased with 7mm-08 so i purchased a second for my youngest who LAST week decided i want to kill a deer this year...1st. choice: 30-06... Can reload ammo up or down... Heavy Bullets or Light... Hot Loads or Light loads. TIME TESTED & PROVEN.
2nd. Choice: 30-30... Can also reload ammo with Lever revolution Flex tips... that can Easily handle 150 + yards. I have also used Cast bullets with 2400 powder for a very Light recoiling but VERY accurate load with 150 or 170 grain bullets. If you plan to add a scope I would recommend a Marlin 336 due to side ejection.
If you’re looking for a rifle with a wood stock, the Mossberg Patriot rifle with Vortex scope package in 308 that they sell at the big “A” to me can’t be beat. Plus you can find 308 or 7.62x51 ammo virtually anywhere for a reasonable price even in the current market. Good luck.Looking at getting the wife her own deer rifle. she has shot my ars,and 30/30,but not any of the others. looking at a bolt action in 243, 7mm-08,or 308. anyone have any suggestions? ...... she will never shoot more than 150 yards.
Hope yours shoots well. I personally know 2 people with that rifle in the non compact, one in 308 and other in 30-06 and neither shoot better than pie plate accuracy with multiple bullets. Its unfortunate because they are otherwise decent budget rifles. Seems barrel quality is really hit or miss tho. Savage and more so ruger seems to skimp on the stock side but puts out a solid action/barrel.If you’re looking for a rifle with a wood stock, the Mossberg Patriot rifle with Vortex scope package in 308 that they sell at the big “A” to me can’t be beat. Plus you can find 308 or 7.62x51 ammo virtually anywhere for a reasonable price even in the current market. Good luck.