[AD from SpringBay]

If you are truly a beginner - go with a Ruger 10/22 - get a cheapy scope and about a gazillion rounds of cheap ammmo - then learn learn learn. Great for squirrel and rabbit.

[ItisaReligionofPeace]

Ruger 10/22 are good little rifles.

[Dick Vomer]

I agree with the .22 suggestion as far as learning how to shoot. What would you recommend as far as a good scope for a customized 10/22 Ruger with bull barrel. I'd like to know what power and what brand.

As for the main question I like a 30.06 for deer hunting. I learned to shoot with a .22 at school and went from that to 30.06 (old M-1)

[supercat]

If you are truly a beginner - go with a Ruger 10/22 - get a cheapy scope and about a gazillion rounds of cheap ammmo - then learn learn learn. Great for squirrel and rabbit.

I have a Marlin model 60 and rather like it. Semi-auto 13+2 capacity tube-fed. The tube feed is less convenient than having ready-loaded magazines, but is probably more convenient than hand-loading magazines at the range (maybe I'm simply not dextrous, but I found the 10/22 magazine a pain to load). Seems to group decently at 100yds with a 4x scope; my eyes aren't good enough to group anything at that distance with the sights.