I am wanting to build a 404J
Wayne @ AHR will be doing the work

1st suggestion. I have a SS LH MRC with the RUM bolt face sitting on my bench. For me to get it to Wayne & back will be about $400 in import/export fees. ATF says it can be down there for "gunsmithing/repair" for a year maximum.
Or do I just try & find a LH CZ (I think I know where to get one in the US) for $1200 or so?

I currently have LH MRC's in 358 Norma, 375 H+H & 458 Lott, I was hoping to still use the MRC I have to keep gun "feel" the same.

I want the finished weight with a Leupold 1.75-6 to be around 10lbs.

What bbl. make & contour?

I want it to have a drop-down mag box...what make?

I have a few sets of Leupold QR (Levers) rings, but was thinkin of trying Warne Maxima's...yes or no?

I was thinking of using Waynes 1/4 rib with a NECG Masterpiece rear site & Masterpiece banded front...other suggestions?

Who makes the nicest looking bbl band? I currently have NECG on the 375 & 458, is there nicer looking ones?

Thanks in advance

It sounds like you don't have to worry . You have alot of rifles. So I say go for it.

there's a lh cz fro $999 on gunsinternational.com as we speak.

good luck rod.

No ideas from anybody?

cmfic1 - First of all; you're on the right track, you have decided to let Wayne do the work. Nobody does a CZ like Wayne does a CZ (go with the CZ)!
As far as a drop box, barrel bands and contours - You're gonna find more opinions than actual choices. Talk to Wayne; tell him exactly what you want (by look and function), then bounce that off of his experience. He will help you throughout the whole process:
I know this because he has my order on the table now - An all weather, hard-use 375 H&H and I had a million questions, many just like yours (bbl bands, quarter ribs, finish, stock, etc).
In fact; I should call him this coming week; it should be very close to shipping. I have 6 customs from 4 builders and it seems I ask the same questions every time. I like learning from the "smith's" experience, all the GOOD ones will gladly share and gladly listen.
I too, want a 404J and will place an order within the next few months; not sure if its gonna be a CZ from Wayne or a Mauser from Ryan Breeding (either will be fantastic). Regardless of who builds the 404J; both Ryan and Wayne WILL get more business from me. They are both amazing; in workmanship and dedication to the customer, dedication to little ole me. (means a lot!)
Sorry for the sales pitch, just trying to convey a point - Trust the GOOD smiths, it'll save you a ton of headaches. They build rifles that look amazing and are built for the hard hunt, many hard hunts (and then your kids fight over it).
Thanks for listening and enjoy the new rifle. . . Dave

I vote for getting a lefty CZ and go from there. I've been told they have the ability to hold 5 down so no dropped box would be needed.
Having all the same type of rifles (MRC's-which I love by the way) would be boring. Try something new

If I used the MRC I would have a straight handle welded on. I have a CZ that Wayne did and another that is just waiting on regulation with ammo that is in the mail. He's top notch.

If it were me I would use a barrel with integral fittings. Clearwater and Pederson offer them at surprisingly decent prices. Bottom metal would have to be Sunny Hill for the MRC or Sound Metal Products for the CZ, that apparently is coming in September or so.

Curious, who is the Wayne you are referring to?

quote:

Originally posted by 375fan:
Curious, who is the Wayne you are referring to?

Wayne is Wayne Jacobson, owner of American Hunting Rifles, Bitteroot is his handle on here, and CZ guru could be his name given by many

Thanks for the pointers so far guys.

I'm thinking 1/2 octagon now

The MRC Lott he did for me has a straightened bolt handle, as would this one.

I do like the idea of trying the CZ

Randy, I read on another post about the LH CZ you have your eye on, I have a good idea I know which one your talking about, so will no longer consider snatching it up....I have time.

Half octagon, some great wood, just a hint of scrool engraving on the action close to and on the double bridge scope bases
Maybe a nice cartridge trap holding 4 rounds or so on the bottom of the stock. Tons of good ideas and all it takes is money and time.

PS: Snatch away, I ordered a lefty CZ H&H on Friday so any you see are fair game.