Hey man, welcome to the forum. You will find a wealth of information on here. I am working on a savage build myself. I have also opted to go with a 26" McGowan for the tube. I think it sounds like a great build. Yeah, it may be a bit much for some smaller game, but you will still have enough gun to shoot bigger things. IMO you can never really have too much gun unless it's a recoil issue. Enjoy your time with your grandfather. Mine got me into reloading ammo a long time ago. He was a crack shot, enjoyed reloading and simple gunsmithing. He taught me more about ballistics than anyone else. Sadly, he passed away this past April, and words can't say how much I miss him. What I wouldn't give to load some ammo with him at my side and swapping shooting/hunting stories. Don't take it for granted man. Enjoy every second of it.