I am beginning my research on my next (2nd) rifle. I just bought a Ruger RSM 416 Rigby and will be buying my light gun. Light in both caliber and weight. I was considering a 270 WSM since it could be used for Pronghorn to Elk. I'll have some overlap between the two rifles, having one in reserve if it was needed during the hunt. So my question is should I just focus on one of the big names and get one for 600- 800 and have some refining work done or is there a better, noticeable, quality gain if I went the route of a semi custom for 1500- 2000? I haven't used a Smith so don't know if there are any in my area or a good one to send out a lesser gun for the fine touches.

the wsm line matches existing rounds, more or less, and is more of a hassle to get to feed.

for the same reasons you gave, I would suggest a model 70 short action in either 708 or 257 roberts, have it stocked, checkered, and FIT to you. Do not buy an off the shelf stock.

the 708 is an excellent choice, with bullets from 100 to 170 grains, and a heck of a lot of makers.

the 257 is a classic, and will do the same work, with bullets from 40 to 140 (if you can find the 140s) normally 120.

I've done both routes... both work great.. the 257 is on a heavier rifle, the 708 is on a TINY one

jeffe

While I am sure the .270 shortie can handle an Elk, it is not the most ideal for that job.

Given your parameters, I would take a long hard look at at Kimber 8400 in either .300 Shortie or .325 Shortie.

"the 257 is a classic, and will do the same work, with bullets from 40 to 140 (if you can find the 140s) normally 120."

Jeffeosso, Where have you seen a 25 caliber bullet of 40 grs. or was that a typo. I've never seen any that light. Jim

Kazoo, consider the TIKKA T3 cal. 270 WSM. No feeding problems, and no need of any gunsmithing... - Lorenzo

Jim,
it was a typo, 60, not 40

http://www.midwayusa.com/eproductpage.exe/showproduct?saleitemid=726884

was thinking about this last night... you could get a ruger 77, and have the barrel made up to look like the magnum, and have a teeny, tiny light rifle

jeffe

Just get a good .30-06 and learn to shoot it. Or if you want a bit more a .300Win mag.. Most critters won't know the difference.

Just for kicks, have a look at the CZ Model 3 being offered in the WSM chamberings. It's all of what the pre 64 Model 70 was...with safer gas control features...for half the price of a semi-custom.

Same theory as Jeffe was getting at but before the ruger I would look at the Montana Rifle Company 1999 barrled action:
http://www.montanarifleman.com/
These are really well thought out actions and reasonably priced, good barrels too. I built my go to gun on one and have no regrets. This is just unique enough to fall fo too since that's what this is all about anyway. Make your own stock, it's not that difficult if you're willing to put the time in. You'll have something for the grandkids for well under $1500.
I really believe that something on the order of the 35 whelen, 338-06, 30-06 would better fill the gap that the excellent 416 leaves than one of the smaller bore calibers for most hunting situations. Download thwe Pointblank ballistics software here:
http://www.huntingnut.com/
and really compare the ballistics of, say, the 270 wsm, to the 30-06 at reasonable hunting ranges and you'll be favourably impressed with the old bird, talk about classic--the Rigbys got nothing on the 06 Springfield.

My preference would be to buy an American Gun. I definitely don't want a French Gun so I'll stay away from the Winchester.

Hello the campfire:
I would take a look a good used rifles. I have found that you can fnd a used one that has been tricked out for less than a new one that neds triger work, recoil pads, scope mounts, ect. I picked up a custon Srpingfield for $850.00 that is great to look at, shoots like a dream and I would have had to pay more for the wood than I did for the rife. Plus you might get a litle history also. Just a thought
Ride easy.
Judge Sharpe a poor widows son

Take a look at the Kimbers in the WSM cartridges. I just bought a 300 WSM with the french walnut stock for $1000. It is a beauty and I think worth the price!

Take a look at Hill Country Rifle. Or call, and ask for Matt, lots of bang for the buck. A company with an excellent reputation and product.

http://www.hillcountryrifles.com/semicustom.asp

Roland

Go for a 30-06... ammo is easy to find and it will do anything you could ask of it.

If not an '06 then the .280 Rem is a fantastic long-range, medium bore round and pleasant to shoot.

Ruger M77/MkII to match your RSM is a good idea. They operate identically for the sake of consistency and training yourself to use them.