Thinking of a build (custom bolt action). Never had one done. Probably my only one.

[Justin Crossley]

Check out this article about a custom I built on a Tikka action. I was under $1500 without optics. I also just did a carbon barreled rifle with a nice composite stock for about $2k.

http://www.rokslide.com/2012-01-09-05-09-42/firearms/343-the-6-5-06-ackley-improved

Here are some pics of three different Tikka customs.

Carbon .300 win mag- Approx. $2k

My 6.5-06 AI- Under $1.5k

My brother's 6.5-06 AI- Under $1.5k

 

[280twoeighty]

Thanks JC, Those are some beautiful rifles and I will read your post in the coming days. Thank you.

 

[hodgeman]

I just picked up a Winchester Classic Stainless in 7WSM that is near new shape for $450.... given your budget of $1500....that leaves a lot of budget to do all kinds of stuff. If you buy the right donor it doesn't have to be overly expensive, just takes some looking around.

I'm going to drop this one in an aftermarket stock and Cerakote it. If it doesn't shoot, I'm going to re-barrel as a .325WSM. Probably still under $1500.

 

[rayporter]

there is no way to 'drop' an action and have it be off center. even from a plane that cant happen.

if QC slips all makers can have problems.

but dont let this deter you from building a rifle [ for you, personally, not for someone else ] that you will cherish.

 

[Brodie]

With your budget I would pick up a used Remington 700 and have the action trued, custom barrel, timney trigger and then keep an eye out for a lightweight McMillan or manners stock. Sell the factory barrel, stock and trigger to recoup some $.
I have rifles built off of 600, 700, and pierce actions and while the custom action is nice there is absolutely nothing wrong with a Remington. The amount of aftermarket upgrades are crazy and you can find lots of you check out other shooting/hunting forums.
I've got 2 pre-64s in the safe that I was going to do builds on but they are tanks compared to a 700 action, imo I wouldn't bother with the one your gunsmith wants to sell you.