Model 70 for the win! I shot my M70 7 mag today and shot a 10 shot group that was one hole you could cover with a nickel. I’d buy an Extreme Weather version and not look back.
A Browning Hells Canyon would be my second choice. But I do prefer CRF.
I don’t trust the new fangled Christensen Arms and Fierce stuff. Too new for my tastes and enough bad reviews out there to make me question them both.
The Tikkas shoot great but are too light for a .300 wm, imo. Their fit and finish also leaves a lot to be desired and at your budget, you can do better.
I wouldn’t even consider a recent Remington. Private Equity owned company. All you need to know.
Ruger Hawkeye might be a contender. Well made and good, although usually not great, accuracy out of the box.
Perhaps a Sako A7 might be worth a look. They generally shoot great right out of the box. Or save a few more Benji’s for the M85.
Kimbers are an expensive gamble. I played it and lost. Multiple trips back to the factory for a half ass resolution and barely acceptable accuracy.
keep an eye on the classifieds here and at 24hrCampfire. I sometimes see remarkable deals on custom guns that people sell for pennies on the dollar.
Wasn’t there a Borden built .300 wm here recently?
You have some budget to do this right. Continue your research and don’t settle. You’ll find what you want.
