Those Mini 14's are nothing to sneeze at. They're essentialy an M1A1 sized down and super reliable and for those doubters, yes I've put about 50 rounds through one.
Ya, 338 Lapua is pretty pricey but WAY fun. That's why I'm still just dreaming about it! I've got a bolt hunting rifle in 300 Win-Mag for those antisocial elk.
The .300 Win Mag is the Yellow pages of rifles...... reach out and touch someone, lol. I have a Burris long eye relief 3x9 scope on that wicked weapon. Yep, psycho moose, elk, ect have no chance if we keep our cool... lol!