Looking to pick out a first centerfire rifle

[PabloJ]

I'm looking at little Colt AR Match Carbine in 7,62x39 as my only rifle. Spare mags are <20/piece and semi-autos in this caliber are legal to hunt with where I live. I'm beginning to think this isn't particularly bad way to go. The fact that one does not need to work bolt or lever between shots is a huge plus.

 

[shooter1059]

I vote 22-250 because of its trajectory, reach and low recoil.

 

[justice06rr]

With the points the OP posted, the AR15 is a very attractive option.

Remember that you can pop the upper receiver and switch calibers very easily if you want to shoot 22lr for training or larger calibers like 7.62x39 or 6.8 for hunting.

 

[coyote315]

With those criteria, I'd start w/ either a ar15... You should be able to pick up a used one for about $800.
Large calibers like [.458 socom] for hunting will come later as an easy addition to a trigger group and shouldering feel you're already used to.

If you want a bolt gun, I would think a .308 or .243 would be your best bet. Definitely go for the detachable mag, whatever you get. My favorite and go-to rifle, as well as the one I let other people who are new to hunting use, is a T/C Icon in .243 YMMV