I'll throw my .02 in the mix. I'm a Mauser and Model 70 fan, and continue to use them for all my rifles (with the exception of an excellent and accurate Montana Rifle Co. - which also uses the 3 position safety and claw extractor). First ceterfire rifle was a700 BDL in '06. The rifle was accurate, but for some reason, most likely the stock, pounded the snot out of me. I shot a friend's Model 70 in 300 Win Mag, and it didn't have the same "ouch" factor. Traded it off, bought a Model 70 and never looked back.
As many others stated, everybody has their favorite "brand", and it's always the best. Many other wise members have stated what I believe as well. All of the rifles you are looking at will do the job, with the accuracy you need...although you may have to try different bullets to find out what your particular rifle likes best. Pick the rifle up, close your eyes and shoulder it. Then open them. How does the stock fit you? What feels good to you? You Can always buy aftermarket parts/stock, but then there goes your budget. McMillan stocks are near $500.
The better call is to buy the best optics you can afford. If you want to stay around 2 grand complete, that Nightforce NX8 is out. There's your 2 grand right there. A most excellent scope, to be sure. I own two, and LOVE them. They are heavier than many other scopes too. My two favorite rifles wear them, and I put up with the extra weight for the quality of the optic. My favorite caliber of choice is a 280 Ackley. I use it for just about everything. That said, ammo can be an issue finding it, if you don't reload. But that is changing. For an all around cartridge, you cannot go wrong with a 270 or 30/06. Ammo is everywhere. Either will slay any beast on the continent, sans maybe the big bears, which a larger caliber would be a prudent choice if that is what you're after.
One last nugget to throw in... My nephew wants to go hunting, so to start him out, I purchased a Tikka T3x Superlite in 6.5 Creedmore and topped it with Vortex 4-16 x 42. Took it to the range to get it sighted in for him, so I can deliver a ready to go Christmas present for next years hunt. Darn thing really shoots! Less than 3/4" at 100 yards, factory ammo. And under $1000, total package! Darn thing shoots as well as my custom rifles at 4 times the cost, no scope.
Many of us here are not happy with one rifle, and must keep searching for the ever elusive perfect rifle/ca
Iber...but that's half the fun! Get the one YOU like best. Whichever you choose, I'm certain you'll be happy with it.
