Thread: Good first hunting rifle?

Since I don't know you, which means personal preference doesn't come into it, we will be sensible while also considering value for money.

Go and buy a package deal for a Howa 1500 blued/synthetic for around $800. Any caliber you like from .243 upwards. A 7mm08 would be good, or a .308.
You could use the Nikko Stirling scope it comes with, and once you get another couple of hundred together, you should use that Nikko Stirling to prop the front door open, or throw it into a river so you can hear the 'plunk' sound, and then buy a Leupold VX1 from the USA for pretty cheap.
Go forth into the wilderness. Get out and learn about hunting deer. It's an accurate and well made rifle, of a superior design. The scope is perfectly servicable and won't break easily. If it does, they will give you another one for free.
This set up will last you for the rest of your life if you don't drop it off a cliff or lose it crossing a river.