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Buy a Savage 110 in .308 (short action) and pocket the money for a low power variable scope. I'm in awe how accurate the inexpensive Savage bolt actions are. Triggers are so so, but the accuracy makes up for it.
The standard is the Remington 700 in .308 IMHO. You have a huge selection of ammo that is readily available. Heavier barrel will lessen the kick as will a synthetic stock.
I shoot a stock Ruger 77 mkII - LH in 270 w/ 2X7 scope and it is fine for my purposes in New England. Downside to being lefty is your selection isn't near as good.
The 7mm-08 is solid out to mid ranges like the 7x57 mauser. You want to buy a caliber that ammo is readily available all over and where they won't stop making it 10 yrs down the road.
1.5x5 scope or 2-7 should be fine for close work on hogs and at mid ranges. Avoid those scope rings you can see through - they are wimpy aluminum and you can bang them out of position too easily. You want some steel rings and bases by Leupold or Redfield. Bushnell trophy scopes are good for the $ and durable. Older Simmons Whitetails variables were good. If you have the $, brands like Leupold and Nikon are super clear and work well in low light. Stay clear of Tasco and lower end Bushnell Sportsmans. Weavers aren't bad either.
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