I have a standard Mesa in 308 with a SWFA 3-9x. Accuracy hasn't been as consistent as I'd like but I like the rifle well enough I'll keep working with it for a while. I'd take either of my Fieldcrafts any day over the Mesa. Same with my Tikka...
I don't recall there being a thread protector included with it but will shoot it without the loudener next time out to see if there's any improvement.
You can get a cheap generic thread protector for 10-12 bucks off ebay.
