I started with my Papaws Enfield MKIII .303, which is an awesome gun, but for the past 7 years, I have sorta retired it and gone to a Marlin 30-30 lever action. Its a great gun...not the best for long range, but I have never had to make a shot over 100 yds. Its very brushy where I live, and the 30-30 is compact, with plenty of punch.
Hey Steve--I'm pretty sure you're the guy who gave me lots of help on turkeys on BYC a while back. We have 10 Bourbon red cuties and they make us laugh every day The toms are SO full of themselves!
As for guns, I don't do guns. Bet my husband would have an opinion, though.
Im using a savage 30-06 I purchased 20 years ago. It is a GREAT versatile gun, can take anything in North America with it. 30-30's are great brush guns. I also shoot traditional black powder guns as well.