While not an expert, I do have a question. What do you want to use a rifle for? Is it for hunting, formal target shooting, plinking, etc., because your reason for the rifle vs a handgun will slant the answer. If it's for hunting, may I suggest a TC encore or contender, or one of the no longer made Savage strikers, or other hand cannons. I used to have a striker in .308 and used it deer hunting, until I forgot to close the muzzle brake and the noise physically hurt. I decided to sell it, but it was very accurate even at long range (with a rest.) It really comes down to what you want the rife for.

Take Care and Stay Safe.