I'll throw another wrench in the cogs and may even get flamed for it.
Due to my experiences I'd stay away from the Edge/Axis series opting for something based off of the Savage 10/110 action, even if my budget only allowed for something used.
Another rifle worthy of consideration would be the Marlin XS7. It is a very nice feature laden starter.


Burris has a heck of a deal right now on the Fullfield 2 4.5-14x42 and offers a $100 rebate on em. http://www.burrisoptics.com/promotions.html I found em in stock online for $227 + $13.62 S&H and once you get the rebate back you'd be looking at dirt cheap for a very good quality optic. (put the cash saved twords a model 10, 11, 12, 14 or 16)

If you're on a tight budget a Trophy Hunter XP can be had ready to go for $519 online with free shipping and a $75 rebate.http://www.savagearms.com/promotions/ Add another $20 or so for an FFL transfer fee and you're still in the $465 range ready to shoot after the rebate. This way you get an accutrigger and a Nikon scope set up and ready to go.
also if you decide to upgrade later The model 11 will probably have more aftermarket support.

On a side note .308 is going to be expensive to shoot with 20 rounds ( $20+ Federal powershock) costing more than what 50 rounds ($39 per 100 Federal bulk) of good .223 costs at my local Wally world.