Here's my take, I'd go Savage (I'm a known Savage fan boy) in short action. Pick up a 20" barrel for it, for a truck gun. Since you stated you want it for defense too I'd suggest .308 and simply for the simple fact that it's available factory loaded almost everywhere. If you would have left out the defense part would have leaned toward another caliber but for defense you really can't expect to spend time loading for your exotic caliber. Running down to the local sports/tackle,gunshop is quicker and easier. But given the fact that it would be Savage you can rebarrel pretty much at will by yourself in well under 20 minutes if you're so inclined. In theory you could have several barrels at home or where ever, available for your shooting desires, 22-250,308,30BR, etc etc..