I guess some would look at it that way..and since I will be 76 yrs old this big game season (Nov-Dec), I guess that could be justified..seeing I just bought a new rifle. Actually, my wind is very good and outside some visits by old.. Arthur Itis himself, I get around pretty good in the woods.
Last year, as I often do..I passed on my Marlin 30/30 to my grandson, thinking my H&R 243 would suffice for deer/black bear season...and it probably would. ...But I got the "new rifle" urge; perhaps some of you guys recognize that!
I visited my nearby gun shop and looked over my dealer's supply of rifles. He is a more-or-less Savage fan...as I am. But going through the usual routine of shouldering and aiming rifles..one fell to my hands and shoulder as if it were 'made for me'.
Anyway, after researching the various rifles and finding that most testers were getting MOA or sub-MOA with these rifles, I put down my $$ for a new Ruger American.
http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2012/01/04/ruger-american-rifle/ Since my military experience was with M1s and M14s..and I grew to really appreciate the .308 cartridge... that's what I picked up.
What convinced me? Well, several things besides the stated accuracy potential with the hammer forged barrel, there was the 70 degree lift on the bolt, (hold position and work bolt with index and second finger), plus the heft and swing of the rifle.
Then, there is the Ruger rotary magazine..4 rounds in a magazine which fits flush and smooth with the stock. The rifle is light weight (6.12 lbs), good for woods walking..but of course, may make the shoulder pay more.
There is no monte carlo...but since this rifle is intended to be used with a scope, the regular stock sets the eye right on line with scope level. The bolt operates slick and smooth and the semi-hexgonal shape of the action is pleasant (to my eye) along with the long, slender barrel Lists at MSRP $450..but should go "out the door" at about $350..mine was a bit less, but that's just my friendly, local dealer.
So..how did they keep the price down..neither the bolt nor the bolt handle ae polished..just machined steel, the stock is synthetic and cannot be easily replaced since the rotary magazine is integral with the synthetic stock. The bluing is not polished..but rather a matte finish (I actually prefer this for hunting).
Another plus..an effective, adjustable trigger & scope mounts at no extra cost.
