I know it’s a bit vanilla, but a T3x Battue in 308 with a Masi QD mount is a pretty skookum all rounder. That’s around the $1500 mark, add an FXII 4x and head for the range. You could drop it in a B&C stock or buy one in walnut right off the hop too, if wood floats your boat.
So you see Dean, it’s not impossible to beat the Marlin.
I also really like my Kimber Montana in 7-08.