Wow this thread took a hard turn.....Back to the original question If I understand the role this rifle will play in your hunting I would look at 338 edge, I agree Chad at LRI does a great job on truing a 700 action give him a call.Next the folks at Benchmark make great barrels and do excellent work, ask me how I know.The 338 edge will push a 300 grain bullet 2800 fps and is supersonic at 1 mile, and is relatively cost effective while doing so.I belive this will give you the best bang for your buck, no pun intended. P.S. get a good brake and build the rifle on the heavy side...