Dinsdale

Just throwing this out since I don't know your end use..... Several shooters are using a 338 RUM since it can be built on a 700rem action due to bolthead diameter. 700's are very good for accuracy and with 700 300RUM actions to be had cheap they make good choices for a build. You could have Hart rebarrel one and bed it in your choice of stocks for 1/3 less than the Sako or Blaser. Donor $350 Barrel $750- feeding shouldn't be an issue with 338 RUM Stock $600-800 Trigger$100 Its tight for a 338 Lapua as some smiths don't like how little is left on the bolt head for its case diameter. The RUM brass is cheaper and has slightly more case capacity. But it really depends on application.

Accurate as can be IF you require a tactical rifle. Also you should then be considering a Blaser LRS2. At about the same price you then have the option of adding a barrel to change calibers (308 Win or 300win).The Blaser platform allows for a switch barrel using the same trigger and bolt assembly,they are VERY accurate (I have a hunting version of the same make,R93) I can highly recommend this dealer as you are going to want some serious optics to take advantage of the 338 Lapua ballistics.He's in PA and has MANY satisfied customers.I have been buying from him for 10+ years and he is hard to beat for pricing for both the rifle you are looking for and some glass for on top. Ask for a quote as he lists MSRP and often has some room to move. http://www.eurooptic.com/sako-trg.asp For shots from 500 to 1000 yds I think you will find both the Sako and the Blaser will be equally matched. http://www.eurooptic.com/blaser-tactical-2-rifles.asp

Not looking for the easy way...but you asked for a maker in a specific geographic area. Can't help there. I built a .45 Flintlock and sold it after shooting a doe with it (sometimes wished I hadn't sold it) If you want some ideas these guy's will take care of the machining if you want and all the bits required; you get to do the stock and assembly. http://www.longrifles-pr.com/index.shtml Click on "stocks and components" the the style you want, and it will give a detailed list of what is needed for assembly. They sell this action and I'm doing one of these next year; http://forums.accuratereloading.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/7971019521/m/5181081331 for a percussion gun. I'll do the barrel turning and silver solder sights and such,making the stock from scratch, and have the blueing done by a pro (Doug Turnbull)

LOL....I tried this one on the old Empire Hunting and got about 3 posts in before it turned to....er......poop. Good luck!

I own a fairly broad range of both scopes and binos and this post is about as close to spot on as I have seen any place.IMHO; Well done. I have several Euro pieces of glass, they are terrific. On a high dollar outfitted hunt any edge you can get could be an advantage. Can I tell the difference in both optic and mechanical performance? Yes. But for most applications? Maybe not so much. They shine when conditions are poor and shots are far. I have come to hunt with glass not my feet, so for me a good set of binos are a must. I have the Nikon 8x42's as mentioned to keep in the truck; good glass for the money for sure. You can often find these at very decent prices for very good glass...mid $200's. Mine have taken a beating and still are solid performers. Frankly most optics can look good in a lighted store. Always try friends optics when given the chance in field conditions;that is when you see the difference. Good hunting!

I see now how Empire Hunting failed and those same tendencies have carried over here..... I believe you can construct an argument without violating what is typically a social ettiquette, no more, no less. Have at it. I will again sit on the sidelines.....

Sorry if that was too long a discourse :-[ There is a fair bit of mis-information on the web;just trying to be accurate. Locally you will find me with a 20ga 870 Remington with open sites for a slug gun on deer. And a bird barrel that has more rounds out of it than I care to count. A bit ragged for looks, but still performing for all seasons.

Poor form to disclose PM discussions.IMO To the original post just because there is information kept by the state does not mean it should be disclosed to the public.Again IMO.

Sorry couldn't find this pic last night; Top to bottom; Swarovski 3-12x50 PH 30 mm I use this on both the 270 and 8x57 R-93 Prestige stock Zeiss 1.8-5.5 for the 270win barrel 300RUM fixed base scope Kahles 2.5-10x50 8x57 barrel 270 barrel 28 ga barrel (yes it has sites) To the left of each is the magazine,the bolt heads for caliber groups on the right. UM, Mag,Stnd. For most who are unfamiliar with Blaser;It's a German made gun,have about 75 dealers in the US. It has a strait pull bolt...the bolt just pulls back,there is no radial turn as in a conventional bolt handle;no lift.The bolt head interchanges for brass diameter.There are around 40 calibers availible from 17hmr to 416 rem in the R93 and the new R8 will also do 416Rigby and 458Lott+win,and 4 matching bolt heads to cover those;they require no tools to change.Magazines hold 3+1,or 4+1 except the 300RUM and 7STW hold 2+1 because of the 404Jeff based brass diameter. The magazine is over the trigger group;hence no floor plate. These guns are 4" shorter then more conventional bolt guns. The saftey is not like conventional that block either the sear or trigger.You cock the gun and that compresses the firing pin spring.Therefore carrying with a round in the barrel it is impossible to drop the gun and have it fire,there is no spring pressure to allow the pin to strike the primer;its just a steel rod until cocked at your shoulder.(I still treat it like any gun and handle as if it can;it just adds to more security when afield) I have one for travel purposes;the stock and 2 barrels in a very small case,similar to a pool cue.(optics in my carry-on) The accuracy when reassembled is precise to the point you need take only one or two shots to check zero.I've had this one on many trips and she cleans up good with a little stock oil. If you would like a link to a Blaser forum that has many just "average guy" members shoot me a PM.We come from all walks of life and just enjoy shooting Sauers,Mauser MO3's,and Blasers.

If you ever happen to want to talk Blasers; I would be happy to help you. I've owned an R-93 for many years and have several calibers for my stock, and have owned others. Currently a 300RUM, 270 Win, 8x57 IS with sites, 28 ga Shotgun. I have owned a 223 Rem, 257 Wby, and a 7 x 57(should have never sold it) Most of my scopes are on the quick detach mounts. Fantastic accuracy with take down repeatability. I have a wood stock, but am shopping for a second composite if I dont go to the R8; my R93 barrels won't fit it, so I may just find used for the R93. 28ga barrel with #8's 270 barrel with Zeiss 1.5x8x44