Congrats on the new lever action. It was one of the first rifles ever used (borrowed from my mentor) and I loved it. Ended up with a Sako finnwolf in .308, I felt it was a more versatile caliber. I love the lever actions.
I have the Remington 760 and a Ruger 77 in 30-06 and I shoot Hornady 150 grain. It has brought down many a deer. Try out different makes and grains and see what your rifle shoots best.
I do, on the Island, Putnam and Dutchess. Carry a Summit Titan and or hunt down on the ground. You have to scout and mark on a GPS so you can find it in the dark.
OHHH MY GODDDDDD. I cracked up so hard that i got a headache. My wife questions my laughter and like a jackass I re-read this God forsaken story. I could not stop laughing for 10 minutes screwing up the story several times and having to read the funny parts again. My head is killing me. I feel so sorry for this dude. Never mind the cat.