Based on the budget rifles out there (Remington 770, Mossberg 100, Savage Axis, Stevens 200 being the first few coming to mind) I would say get the Stevens 200. It is much easier to alter and upgrade should you decide to and it is a time proven action design since it is the same as the Savage 10/110 series.

The Axis would be my 2nd choice. While affordable and accurate, it is lacking in the stock strength and currently there are no aftermarket stocks for it.

Either way go Savage or Stevens over the 770 or Mossberg, but my first choice would be the Stevens.

Also watch for the Savage Package guns. Sometimes you can pick one up pretty cheap.