Guys,
Thanks for all the kind words. I have hunted for a living for a long time (I am an outfitter and booking agent), which is probably why I have always had a common sense approach. I hunt about 200 days a year, so I don't have the time or desire to spend day after day in the loading room trying to re-invent the wheel. It's funny how many folks feel the same way, though. I get more positive reader feedback when I write about common sense cartridges like the .260 or .280 or hunting with my kids than I do on any other subject.
fortymile,
I would definitely forgo the muzzle brake if it were my gun, and I wouldn't have that detachable magazine on a hunting rifle either, but that rifle is so accurate I had to shoot some stuff with it.
Sadly, thin pages are a sign of the times for the entire industry. Once the economy turns around, I think you'll see page counts increase.
