thanks for all the advice. went a slightly different route. i bought a slightly used sendero in 25-06. old model with non flute blued barrel, pre j-lock. got scope mounted and will hopefully try some loads this wknd.
SEAN - EX cellent choice. i have a fluted one in 6.5-284 and one like yours. enjoy. if you google remington crisp it will tell you how to adjust the trigger.
Actually the trigger has been adjusted to 3lbs according to the guy that sold it. Feels a bit lighter. Pretty good but does have a slight bit of creep.