I have a stock, and Wally World is selling accutrigger 243s in Lacey for $377. I figure $300 for the barrel. That's around $800 all up minus the 243 barrel (50) and the original stock ($35).
Say $750 when the smoke clears.
So if I understand correctly, you're going to go with a Savage action. You mentioned you have a stock. Which one? Sounds like the only thing you have left to decide on is which barrel to use. With a Savage action, I would go with one of the pre-threaded and chambered barrels and buy the action wrench, barrel nut wrench, and headspace guages, and mount it myself. With this setup, have as easy a switch-barrel setup. If you wanted to shoot a 22-250 for a while, buy the pre-threaded and chambered barrel and headspace guages, and screw it on. Pac-Nor will sell you a pre-threaded and chambered barrel. That kind of flexability is hard to ignore, especially when you add in that you can change out the bolt head on a Savage action, and move to a .223 based cartridge, if you are willing to shoot it as a single shot...
As far as targets and long range hunting, I have a #5 barrel on my .308, and it is a GREAT compromise between portability, balance, and repeatable, consistent accuracy. My McMillan stocked 700 with its 22" #5 Krieger comes out at 8lbs, 14oz with socpe. Easy to carry, easy to shoot well...
John
