+1
I'm running the following for my first long range build (not a novice though)
Rem 700 R5 Mil Spec .308 ($1300) (In stock at Accuracy Plus in Peterborough for $1000)
AI 1.5 Stock ($900)
Badger Base and Rings ($400)
Bushnell Elite 6500 ($800)
Badger Bolt Knob ($50)
Harris Bipod ($80)
The bare minimum I would recommend is $2000 - $2500 for a rifle, base & rings, and scope. Also there is a huge difference in recoil between .17 HMR and center fire. If you want to feel bone crushing recoil that will make you flinch with every shot buy a 700P in .300 Rem Ultra Mag, Wolverine Supplies has one in stock. If you want an real custom tack driver call Rick at Alberta Tactical or VBull and they will set you up, but you will be looking at alot more than $2500
Just my two cents, good luck
imo accuracy plus is not worthy of ones dollars. i hope the owner of that store reads this and pms me. the staff are the most indifferent i have had the misfortune of meeting, and lazy as heck.