I sold my "sportered" M38 in 6.5 to a fellow CGN'r. It had an aftermarket trigger, aftermarket safety, had been d&t'd, had a modified bolt handle to allow for scope mounting, barrel recrowned at 22", and was set in an inexpensive composite stock. It shot very well and I loved the cartridge, but decided to go with a new T3 light in the same. If you get a lot of pleasure out of doing the mods (or having them done by someone else), starting with a military is a great idea. If you just want a hunting rifle in 6.5, you're likely better off purchasing a new or used non-military...Tikka, Sako, Ruger, CZ,...and there are others out there. Another possibility would be the re-barrel of a commercial action, but that can become a pretty pricey custom project.