The scotch tape does work. When I install a savage barrel I just use a go gauge and then use scotch tape on the go gauge and it becomes the no gauge. I hand load for my rifles and check the head space on the fired brass for sizing using calipers and hornady bushing and never have had a problem...
Depends on how hot you run it. I have trashed nosler 300 win mag cases after 3 firings running it hot. If you buy 100 of the hornady you will probably get 10 plus years out of it. After that it might be even more difficult to find STW brass then it is now.
If it was me I would just run a bore snake down the bore to make sure it is clear of obstruction, test the safety and dry fire it. Then I would purchase a box of factory ammo and test to see if it will chamber and extract and then head to where ever you can to shoot it and put on some eye and...
If you can afford it get the 1.6 extender with the scope. I am looking at this for my next set up. The birder reviews have been well received with the extender but I have not seen any hunter reviews yet. A 96 power 88mm scope could be a game changer. You could even stack the extenders to...
IMO you have the right plan. At least for the ultra lights its easier to put a scope on the western edition. I looked at an ultra light at my local sportman's and it wasn't drilled for a front sight which makes no sense since Nevada only allows iron sights.
I would try another primer. Looks like the win primers might be undersized for that case. Also check to see if he is not undersizing the case. Verify with tools of .002" bump on the shoulder with fired brass in that chamber.
I have Northwest Actions Works building me a 300 WM now with almost the same options as your option A but with Ramrod action (Defiance Hunter), 4 port brake, and Mcmillan thumbhole hunter stock. It will be about 6 months before it is complete so I cant comment on how I like. They are throating...
For those having accuracy issues I would suggest bedding the scope base. I was having problems with fliers on my 300 WM and I bedded the scope base and touched up the action bedding and now it is driving tacks. I also didn't find any sensitivity with seating depth using 200 gr ELDX's but I did...