BJH65
AH enthusiast
Excellent choices! Some very experienced and knowledgeable AH folks can’t say enough good about the Heym Martini Express. A very astute AH member pointed out there is nothing like physically handling the rifle, shouldering, working the bolt, getting a feel for it. Can’t do that sight unseen and for that kind of money, he’s right, it calls for that. I like your ranking, except I’d switch #2 for #1.As someone who is also currently looking to buy a “bespoke” dangerous game ready bolt action rifle I have narrowed it down to the following production rifles.
1. Mauser M98
2. Heym Express
3. Rigby Big Game
4. Parkwest Arms SD-76
All of the above should be able to be had within your budget. I am still weighing the options between 375HH, 416 Rigby and 450 Rigby.