If you are looking for a high quality action, take a look at the one McMillan makes...they call it the MCR-T and it comes in different lengths and will handle case heads the size of the 416 Rigby. They aren't inexpensive but they are quality.

I have had a Dakota 76 for about 10 yrs. I also have a lot of Pre-64 70s and older CZs. The Dakota is nice, but, over-priced now, especially importing one into Canada.

For a .416, I would spend about half the money and get a CZ tuned by a good smith, it would be every bit as useful and reliable a rifle. If, you can find a Dakota that you like used, then buy it, but, a new one is just too much money for a working rifle, IMO.

I have seen quite a few problems with "Classic" 70s, I wouldn't own one, except a full re-build by a top smith such as Echols-this is even more expensive. Many working pro bear guides I know use CZ rifles in .375 and .416 with complete satisfaction.

kutenaymtnboy,



What're the usual problems with model 70 "classic" actions (the CRF's, right?)



Why can't they be gone over by a standard smith like the CZ's? Just curious. I had one in mind for a future project 9.3x62, and the stock CZ was under consideration, too. My other thought was maybe a 70 in .338-06.



Steve

That just depends on your definition of a "standard" smith. A good gunsmith is a good gunsmith and I would have one look over and modify eigther action as needed.

Jordan,
I am not doubting you, but I do wonder where you got your information. What are the tolerances on the Dakota vs the model 70 and the same question regarding the steel? And don't know if you knew but the trigger on the Dakota is an exact copy of the model 70, so what makes it better?