Bolt Rifle with Iron Sights

[makkitty]

I just got one, Mk 1/2. Great little gun, dead accurate with iron sights, very little recoil, and .303 isn't horrible to get a hold of, and you can pick one up for a very reasonable price.

(Blurg. Tried to quote Gunner11 and messed up. Talking about .303 Lee Enfield)

 

[Welding Rod]

You may want to check with Creedmore Sports - they are selling 03s in the $900 range.

 

[USAF_Vet]

How about a modern Mauser rifle. Same action as the classic WWI and WWII rifles, probabaly better sights, better stock, and most likel a ailable in stainless.

It'll cost much more than a milsurp, however, it'll last your great grandkids their lifetimes.

 

[I6turbo]

You should also give a lot of thought to the caliber. IMO, that can be a bigger consideration than the actual gun. YMMV, but I would probably get a .223 for a first centerfire rifle. I have several rifles, but the CZ 527 in .223 is my favorite to shoot, especially in the type of scenario that you described.