Looks like Op got a rig, but for anyone watching the thread. IMO and it's simply that, best bang for buck I think starting out (and doesn't have the proper tools to put on barrels, headspace gauges etc.) the Tikka CTR 24" in 6.5 is a good way to go, pull the barreled action, put it in a KRG Whiskey 3 with MCarbo trigger spring. Probably looking at $2k that route plus scope and mount. I think 6.5 Creedmoor gives you a lot more flexibility for bullet selection as well vs the 6mm variants. Run a 123gn if you want a fast round, or go heavier etc whereas the 6mm are a tight window weight wise. Think about factory ammo availabilityofferings vs having to load your own to get the performance you want. I'm not a competitive shooter by any means, but like going to the local matches etc. I have a .224 valk bolt gun that I really like in an AICS chassis that I typically use, a 6.5 creedmoor on an impact action in an MPA comp chassis that I also like a lot, but is a new setup I put together due to the downtime in this garbage pandemic so can't give an informed opinion on it yet however the action is awesome so far. I'd also think about long term, if you love this shit, buy once cry once and get an action that you can work with like an Impact or Nucleus, or Origin etc. so you are just buying barrels vs having your shit sit with a smith for months. It's def more expensive up front, but way way cheaper in the long run if you want to change calibers. Just my 5 cents lol, I'm still hungover from the Corps's bday...happy to chat about my rabbit hole progression too, as I've had many looking back moments.
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