wow thanks guys, that is a lot of info and unfortunately it seems there are even more options than I knew about, I want to build something good but budget is also an issue, any ideas what some of this stuff is running price wise and what ammo is even available? I am still leaning a bit towards the .300 due to the price and availability of parts and ammo, and I likely will just be hunting dear for a bit. If I want to go elk I could just go buy a 30-06 and be done with it. I am still open to suggestions though. I spoke with a few guys at Jensens and they thing the .300 does just fine out to 300-400 yards.