Santa came early in Western MD today!

My girlfriend spoiled me with a Savage Model 11 in .243

I have some questions on setting up this rifle. I tried the search with little help.

The Leupold bases didn't work, as the rear base hit the bolt. What mounts do you recommend? Can a large power scope fit this rifle? I'd like to use a Meuller 8.5x25x50 scope, will high mounts be necessary?

Anything else I should know about the Model 11? With the 22" barrel, does it prefer heavy or light bullets? Summertime brings lots of groundhog hunting where the lighter bullets would be nice, but not all necessary.

I have a Model 10FP in .223 and it sure is a shooter! I'm excited about putting another Savage in a cabinet full of Remington's! They are getting jealous.

Many thanks, looking forward to a great gun