Also look at the Ruger American.

I haven't heard much about the axis or mossberg models specifically but i i have been told by many gun enthusiast (don't just my shiz, i'm just repeating what i was told.) to stay away from the mossberg rifles, for various reasons but mainly cause they are cheaply produced (once again could be wrong i have never owned or shot one). Savage makes good guns, and so does remington. Altho i have heard a few supposed bad reviews about the 770, i would still swing that way, but honestly any of the 3 will work well for a new guy. Have him hold each one up and decide which one feels right.

I would look at the remington 700 ADL at academy for 349.00. In myopinion superior to the others and will shoot great out the box

Yea, thats true. I shoot a 700 ADL in .270, have been for years and will be for years to come. But i thought they made the ADL special order only now?

What about an H&R 45/70 or a CVA .35 wheelin? Those both kick butt and aren't expensive at all. So many people bought the H&R I bet there's a lot of used ones for sale too. Solid guns, not packaged.