Allow me to clarify. I have been hunting all my life, with uncles and my grandmother. I've taken a few deer as a minor. Originally the plan was not even to hunt, but to get an older AR variant. I went into the national guard Jr year of high school as infantry, so I wanted an AR since I'm very comfortable with them. However due to MA laws, I can't get one, being under 21 ETC.
I've wanted a Mosin anyway, I've shot a few and I'm a big fan. I am looking to start a collection, which is why shotguns and most muzzleloader dont particularly interest me.
I've hunted for years, but I have never planned my own trip going solo or with a friend. I've always been a tag along, so to speak.
I want the Mosin, and I really dont want to spend even more money on another firearm if I CAN go with a regular rifle. Furthermore, I've bagged deer and it's fun, but I would get more enjoyment out of bigger game hunting, as opposed to just being another guy who got another deer (again).