Have a butchered 1940 k98.
Action is smoothest mauser I've ever felt.
Wanting to build a basic sporter from parts in 257 roberts.
Something I can leave in truck, not a work of art.
Any suggestion on smith to:
D &T
New safety
Barrel removal and install new
Remove charging hump
Would consider budget prethreaded/ short chambered barrel
Handle already modified
Will drop in hogue for now or a take off sporterized stock if I can find one.

Given those requirements don't require a high end smith meaning no engraving or custom stock work, I would recommend Mark Skaggs. He has done some very fine work for me. He can supply a new Douglas barrel for a good price as well.

Mark Skaggs

If you want the best, then I can also highly recommend Jim Kobe. Jim does the highest level work at a fair price.

Kobe would be my choice. Have several and he will get (2) more (maybe 3) this year.

When I read keywords in the OP like “butchered”, “basic sporter”, “can leave in truck, not a work of art” and “budget” I don’t even think gunsmith, let alone a top builder. You will very quickly spend way more on ‘smithing services than the end product would be worth.

I cringe as I type this, (because I dislike the advice when I hear others give it to someone wanting to take on a new project) but you’d be better off dollar-wise looking for a new or used rifle that meets your needs.

Having said that, the first thing that comes to my mind is DIY. All dependent on your level of ability and patience of course. PM me if you would like some additional inputs. I’ve done a few of these projects and might even be talked into loaning a few items to help you out…

What's WalMarts' price on a Rem. 700,,,,,,, $380??

You have a 98k, not a k98.

He actually has a K98k.