Lyman also makes a nice ML, I think they call it the "Deerslayer", or "Deerstalker". Fairly inexpensive but quality seems OK and it's a little lighter than say, a Hawken. I've been thinking about picking one up for my 13 yr old.

Myself, I've always used a Thompson/Center .50 cal carbine. Love it.

Dog' is right that oftentimes you won't have a lot of company, but this isn't always true. Depends on your unit. I just returned from elk hunting in unit 342, and it seemed there was a hunter under every bush! Makes for great socializing however.