The heck I can't use a Remington action.
Been shooting this short action Remington for 20 years now. Every now and again it gets a new barrel. Just replaced the Leupold in the photo with a new Vortex. It's shot "high master" scores in NRA prone competition, and has also been used for hunting varmints, predators, deer & bear.
Krieger barrel (one of several that have been on the rifle). This one is a .308 Win, but could just as easily have been a 6.5 of one flavor or another.
Trued Rem action despite your protests. With tuned Rem trigger.
McMillan stock.
Badger base & rings.
Saved money by not having a fancy finish on the barrel & action. I just spray a little Krylon now and again. Also didn't spend money on flutes or fancy stuff.
The ol' Green Machine is still a great shooter. Lots of good rifles out there. I like your Tikka idea too.
Regards, Guy