Beautiful indeed, but I can't justify a pretty rifle that can't shoot. My biggest concern is accuracy as its the hardest problem to remedy.
Instead of singing the usual praises and posting pics of my 84's like I most often do in these many Kimber threads that pop-up, I'm going to say just move along. Thumpers pics should be all it takes, but if after handling the Kimber it doesn't tug at your very soul and beg you to take it home I would say look to a WBY backcountry or Tikka T-3, very little chance of problems, millions out there, pretty light too.
I can fully understand your fear of being stuck with a roach, but realize also that Kimber has a warranty centre here in Canada {Korth group I believe} and any new Kimber is covered. Steer clear of used low serial numbered Montanas or classics in 7-08 unless you are prepared for some possible tinkering.
I've had four now with one earlier production Montana in 7-08 that would consistently misfire. The rifle went to a well respected gunsmith here in BC who couldn't fix the problem. I sold it on the EE with full disclosure and IIRC the member I sold it to had it up and running pretty quick.
Of my other two 84M's, one required some slight polishing of the left feed rail, the other was good to go out of the box and the 8400 Montana in .300WSM I had at one time was flawless.
As to your concerns with accuracy, I'll offer some insight that may help.
It is bandied about on here often, but it needs to be said again that a sub 6lb rifle all-up like the 84M require serious discipline to shoot tight off of bags,no joke. Around MOA is the norm for mine with a tailored handload. Expect load development to take a bit more time.
If I so much as drink a large Tims an hour before load development on a 5 1/2 lb rifle I may as well head home for the day.
There is a huge difference in shooting a 7-8lb lightweight compared to a rifle that comes in under 6lbs.
Like many others on this forum I have had lots of ultralight rifles go through my hands both custom and factory including an RMR {Corlanes}. I am expecting my NULA model 20 to arrive before the end of July and am quite excited about it, but I find myself always coming back to the 84M. That little rifle takes the best features of the some of the greatest bolt action rifles of the twentieth century, adds in my opinion the finest factory trigger ever offered on a production rifle and plops it in an amazing stock.
Everybody and their dog builds an ultralight offering using a rem 700 action or clone in a Micky edge, it's very practical for most. Not many can bring a CRF to the table that comes close to an 84M, even Model 70's on a diet that includes heavy machining.
Who would have ever thought an Israeli would end-up designing the action for the ultimate North American factory produced mountain rifle!!
