ckay I'm thinking around $2-3k is a good starting budget after all things considered... I was told that optics are something you should buy big and grow into, since rifles may be easier to upgrade in the future - and yessir gun safety is 11/10 the most important thing in my mind.
Fingers crossed if I enjoy the session this coming Saturday, I have my eyes set on an NRA basic rifle shooting course for Feb 6th. I'm still searching for a FIRST steps rifle orientation session though.
The thought of an accident was what had kept me away all these years despite my interest. I would be keen to have the rifle stored properly under lock when not in use.
I saw the prices on 6.5cms and boy oh boy... I think I can easily justify losing a box of ProV1s before making the same argument for a box of the ammo LOL