I've owned a nice Howa 1500 in 308. No complaints there. My custom 358 Win is built on a Howa 1500 (originally a 22-250) and is an absolute tack driver. If you use wide flat nosed bullets (mine are cast) then it will have feed issues but that can be solved with a single stack AICS detachable mag...
My suggestion would be a 6.5x55 chambered rifle. It's accurate, low recoil, easy to reload, has lots of factory ammo, etc. If it is still too much just put a compensator on it. It will kill anything from varmint to moose with the correct bullet.
I no longer have a Glock pistol so I am selling these fifteen round metal mags. I have seven total mags. Two mags are new in package, two are new without package, and three are slightly used (just scuffed from sliding around).
I keep my S&W Model 19-2 snubby loaded next to the bed with Triton Quick-Shoks. Those are nice and powerful. If I had to eventually replace them I would use the Corbons that I have. If buying new ammo then I'd either go with Hornady Critical Defense or Buffalo Bore ammo. Be careful buying Gold...
You have a great start with that press. I loaded with a Lee press for nearly 20 years and even when I worked at a range I never wore it out. The absolute best thing to spend money on for an upgrade is a good digital scale. It will not only make things easier but also much faster than a level...