Looking for a bolt action.

I'm just getting started in precision rifle again after mostly using ars. I've had bolt guns in the past but nothing to crazy. Been looking at some rifles in the $3000 price range and one that sticks out is the surgeon scalpel. Was wondering if these are still good options for the money. Thanks for any other recommendations or guidance.
 
I'm just getting started in precision rifle again after mostly using ars. I've had bolt guns in the past but nothing to crazy. Been looking at some rifles in the $3000 price range and one that sticks out is the surgeon scalpel. Was wondering if these are still good options for the money. Thanks for any other recommendations or guidance.
To clarify, you're looking for a factory built bolt action for around the $3000 mark? Or that's your budget you can spend up to?

To help we'd need to know the use case for this rifle (hunting, target shooting, etc.), what distances, what kind of chamber you are looking at, ammo you will use, etc. then folks can try and help you from there.
 
If you are remotely handy, I would suggest assembling your own. Pre-fit barrels can be excellent. It is quite simple and you will end up with exactly what you want.
This is what I was going to suggest.

For modularity re: bolt faces and overall value for the $$ I'd say go with a Zermatt Origin action and pre-fit from bugholes, patriot valley arms (can get it as a barreled action), or other preferred gunsmith.

If the OP goes with a barreled action all he has to do is drop it into his choice of stock/chassis (KRG, MDT, etc.) and off he goes after mounting an optic.

See here for thread on gunsmiths:
 
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I'm just getting started in precision rifle again after mostly using ars. I've had bolt guns in the past but nothing to crazy. Been looking at some rifles in the $3000 price range and one that sticks out is the surgeon scalpel. Was wondering if these are still good options for the money. Thanks for any other recommendations or guidance.

In addition to the options previously mentioned, if you are possibly going to compete in PRS matches with this rifle, I highly suggest joining PRS with a membership. It will unlock coupon codes that can be used with a long list of manufacturers which will save you more money than your PRS membership fee. For instance, a complete rifle can be ordered from MPA and use that coupon code for a pretty sweet deal on great shooting rifles.

https://masterpiecearms.com/shop/matrix-pro-pmr-rifle/
 
You didnt mention caliber so I highly recommend starting at 6.5 creedmoor no matter which route you take.

Prebuilt guns: mpa, or seekins.

Build your own:
Action: Zermatt origin
Barrel: proof prefit steel
Stock: manners (with mini chassis) or a Chassis: mdt acc
Trigger: Triggertech
Brake: area 419

Scope mount: area 419 ring or single
Scope: leupold mark 4, leupold mark 5, vortex razor
 
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