Best Bolt Actions and designs

What, no custom actions like the bench resters and others tout?
 
Some of my northern neighbors who successfully “subsist” (as much as possible today) would argue that the WWII Mosin M39 rifle is the best there is. Preferably those Finnish models made by Sako. Made for the cold, and they work. 7.62x54R, they use the steel jacketed bullets for bear, copper for everything else.
 
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Actions: I’m seriously looking @ Blaser SR 850/88 in .375 H&H & I’m new to straight pull designs. Earlier design/model & I’m fine w/ that: any help before the € coins drop would be greatly appreciated:

*Curious if you know meaning: 88?
* Interchangeable barrel - I know, Steel & Alloy options & cannot mix/match?
* This Straight Pull design:
Pro: more compact magazine box & smooth/quick rail action.
Con: there is always something _____?

Pic for ref. Thx!View attachment 455712
The Blaser 850/88 was a conventional turnbolt rifle, not a straight pull.


Unfortunately in German, but beautiful to look at.


HWL
 
If we speak about diversity in calibers: from all the great world wars rifle designs: mauser 98, lee enfield and mosin nagant, only mauser has shown adaptability and commercial versions from smallest to largest calibers in different action lenghts.

So, historically, mauser 98 is unsurpassed.

Judging by that: I think only modern Sako 85 and Blaser follow production in several action lengths to accommodate all caliber lenght standards. (as well as modern high end mausers)
However, Sako ejection has on occasion been reported as problematic on large calibers.
 
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Win M70 in 30-'06 and .375 H&H. Maybe add .404 Jeffery for big things in Africa.

In North America? 22-250, 257 Roberts or 25-'06, 7mm Rem Mag or 30-'06, .338 Win Mag.
 
The M.98 has surely stood the test of time and is probably the best but, I really consider the Mannlicher-Schoenauer to be the number one classic of all time! I love the velvet smoothness of it's action, rotary magazine, and sleek lines.
 

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where are you located? I would be happy to help you with you doing the reloading but I will only load for a very few real close friends as posted before liability is the problem. but will help you.
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A two minute video I made of our recent Safari. I think it turned out well
 
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