I'd go SS 700 .338WM, with the blank turned down to a #4-ish contour and cut at 23". The mag box will allow long-nosed stuff if he wants and he can load down to .338-06 speeds with no problems. He can also shoot factory ammo if need be. For the stock, I'd go McMillan or Manners, in whatever pattern he likes, be it classic style, monte-carlo, or one of the tactical/hunter hybrids. Pick a scope without to much power and plenty of eye relief. Stick a Timney in it. There's no flies on a balanced 9lb .338WM if the weight doesn't bother a guy. My Ruger weighs something near that and 200/210gr stuff at 2,900 wasn't brutal, and it wasn't redlined either.
