Can also add Howa's (they even sell a barreled action by itself if you plan to put a new stock on anyway), Weatherby Vanguard's, and Ruger American's to the list. Definitely some of the nicer budget rifles.
Bergara and CZ have some nice actions and good looking rifles as well. If you want something that is unique-ish
The Remington of today is not the same as it used to be. Nothing wrong with a Remy made before Freedom Group purchased them. Short answer here is Ruger American or Savage
I've been looking into a "budget" 308 bolt gun like the OP so maybe you guys can help me out also. What I've been thinking about is either a Savage Hog Hunter ($450-$525) versus a Savage Axis II ($400-$450 with the cheap scope that comes with it). Wanting it mostly for deer hunting, but to also work for the random 100-300 yard plinking yet be modify-able enough to work as a base gun if I ever wanted to try semi-long range shooting. Long term, is the Hog Hunger (with the 11/111 action) going to be work the extra money in accuracy and durability over the Axis? My gut says yes as I have yet to regret spending a little more to get the "better one" but I'm a novice to bolt guns so figured you guys could give me some feed back first.
I've been looking into a "budget" 308 bolt gun like the OP so maybe you guys can help me out also. What I've been thinking about is either a Savage Hog Hunter ($450-$525) versus a Savage Axis II ($400-$450 with the cheap scope that comes with it). Wanting it mostly for deer hunting, but to also work for the random 100-300 yard plinking yet be modify-able enough to work as a base gun if I ever wanted to try semi-long range shooting. Long term, is the Hog Hunger (with the 11/111 action) going to be work the extra money in accuracy and durability over the Axis? My gut says yes as I have yet to regret spending a little more to get the "better one" but I'm a novice to bolt guns so figured you guys could give me some feed back first.
Tired of my SA 'weapons of war' and would like to get a classic hunter.
Any suggestions for an economical entry-level .308 bolt action?