Since I'm going back to work (which sucks) I'm probably going to start ordering parts for the custom build now instead of this Fall. The rifle will be used for long range tactical comp, probably some F-Class/TR, and for hunting the bean fields. StrictlyRUM is doing the build and of course he'll weigh in, too. But I wanted to get a final opinion on the action to use. Here's what I have so far from scrounging the net:
Savage - very accurate, inexpensive (stainless SA < $500), well known, user-swappable barrels (easily changed and headspaced), quality is very good as a rule, three-way safety is nice, and I like that the mag sits flush in the stock right where my hand rests for unsupported firing. But I'm having problems with the Accutrigger on my FCPK, aftermarket support is not as extensive as 700 based actions, and resale will not be very high relative to true custom actions.
Remington - very well known, can be made very accurate, relatively inexpensive compared to true custom actions, loads of aftermarket support. But it requires machine work to reach accuracy potential, the two-way safety blows chunks (I hated having my bolt opening on its own while stalking the woods), quality can be hit-or-miss, Badger and CDI bottom metals have the mag sticking out right where my hand rests for unsupported shooting, and resale will not be as high as with custom actions.
GAP Templar - hugely accurate, high resale, top notch quality, any smith familiar with the 700 action knows this action well, also. But it is very expensive, and has some of the negatives the 700 action does.
Badger - very accurate, giant bolt and receiver, very durable and rugged, it's "different". But it adds weight, there were issues with some versions of it not cocking/firing, depending on the stock it will likely have the protruding mag problem when shooting off-hand.
Surgeon - based on what little I know so far it shares many of the same pros and cons as the GAP Templar.
For the win ... if ya had to pick, which one and why?
Savage - very accurate, inexpensive (stainless SA < $500), well known, user-swappable barrels (easily changed and headspaced), quality is very good as a rule, three-way safety is nice, and I like that the mag sits flush in the stock right where my hand rests for unsupported firing. But I'm having problems with the Accutrigger on my FCPK, aftermarket support is not as extensive as 700 based actions, and resale will not be very high relative to true custom actions.
Remington - very well known, can be made very accurate, relatively inexpensive compared to true custom actions, loads of aftermarket support. But it requires machine work to reach accuracy potential, the two-way safety blows chunks (I hated having my bolt opening on its own while stalking the woods), quality can be hit-or-miss, Badger and CDI bottom metals have the mag sticking out right where my hand rests for unsupported shooting, and resale will not be as high as with custom actions.
GAP Templar - hugely accurate, high resale, top notch quality, any smith familiar with the 700 action knows this action well, also. But it is very expensive, and has some of the negatives the 700 action does.
Badger - very accurate, giant bolt and receiver, very durable and rugged, it's "different". But it adds weight, there were issues with some versions of it not cocking/firing, depending on the stock it will likely have the protruding mag problem when shooting off-hand.
Surgeon - based on what little I know so far it shares many of the same pros and cons as the GAP Templar.
For the win ... if ya had to pick, which one and why?
