I started hunting late, and in Germany
But I still get to hunt so it aint so bad. My first rifle was a sporterized Mauser 98 in 7x64, still got that puppy. Still trying to find a way to bring it back, when I do go back.
I've shor European Roe Deer, Mufflon, Damm (Fallow)with fox and cats. Accurate, looks good too, it's in a Boyds JRS stock. It usually wore a Burris Fullfield, which now sits on my Marlin MR-7 (excellent rifle by the way). It's a true game thumper.
But since I might not be able to bring it back, I am centering all hunting on the MR-7 in .30-06. I use a .308 and .243 (both excellent Savages!), and Savage 24 & 93
With the exception of the M98 and my Remington varmint, all my rifles have steel weaver type rails with standard and sure grip Weaver rings.