As a back pack hunter my self I know it is hard on stocks. Every one likes nice wood but not practical for crawling thru brush & generally getting knocked around. I see an inexpensive plain synthetic stock for hard knocks. A used one if possible. A low powdered variable scope like a 1 x 6 or a 2x7 . Straight 6x is to limiting especially under 100yds. .I am a hard core 6.5 shooter. 260 , 6.5x55, 6.5-06, 6.5xWSM & 264 mag.My game each season is deer & elk. For deer a bullet like the Sierra 120ghr will take the largest deer For elk the Barnes 120gr TSx gives me complete penetration year after yes . & yes my 6.5x55 with Barnes TSX bullet has taken a fair amount of elk. My suggestion is to leave your rifle exactly as is. Shoot for accuracy & hunt.
