Looking...

[Hal]

...for an entry level (inexpensive) deer rifle. Something larger than a .243, preferrable a 30.06 or a .308 bolt action for my son.

[Jwrussell]

Hmmm...I don't hunt, but my first thought is, what about a lever action? A nice Marlin in 30.06?

[Hal]

We went to a gun show today and found my son a new Mossberg .270 bolt action that he liked. It is light so he can handle it but not too light that it jumps around. We got it for $260 including sight mounts and a lock, which is cheaper than most of the places I've looked when you add their shipping costs. Regardless, he likes it and it should be a good rifle for a long time, especially with a lifetime warranty.