I've been looking at getting a new rifle for western deer/elk hunting, specifically the Kimber Montana in 280 Ackley Improved. Strictly speaking, I don't need a new rifle. I've got a DPMS LR308 Light Hunter. It is a fairly accurate rifle, just heavy for lugging around the mountains. And there is still space in the safe. 
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While my 308 will do (and has done) the job, I really like what I've read about the performance of the 280 Ackley. Very close to 7mm Rem Mag, without the extra weight and length of the magnum action. I know factory ammo is somewhat hard to find in stores, but it's readily available online. I also do a little reloading, so I don't think ammo availability will be much of a factor.
The Kimber Montana weighs in at 5 lbs 10 oz in 280AI, add a lb in the magnum calibers. It comes with a 1moa guarantee and I can get one at a local gun shop for $1260. Are there any better options at this price/weight/accuracy? Most of the rifles I've found in 280AI are either much heavier or much more expensive. I know people rave about the Tikka T3x, but it isn't offered in 280AI. I can get it in 7mm Rem Mag, but a lb heavier than the Kimber. I do prefer to buy American made stuff though. One thing that worries me is some reports of poor quality control with the Kimber rifles lately.
What do yall think? Anyone here made a similar decision?
While my 308 will do (and has done) the job, I really like what I've read about the performance of the 280 Ackley. Very close to 7mm Rem Mag, without the extra weight and length of the magnum action. I know factory ammo is somewhat hard to find in stores, but it's readily available online. I also do a little reloading, so I don't think ammo availability will be much of a factor.
The Kimber Montana weighs in at 5 lbs 10 oz in 280AI, add a lb in the magnum calibers. It comes with a 1moa guarantee and I can get one at a local gun shop for $1260. Are there any better options at this price/weight/accuracy? Most of the rifles I've found in 280AI are either much heavier or much more expensive. I know people rave about the Tikka T3x, but it isn't offered in 280AI. I can get it in 7mm Rem Mag, but a lb heavier than the Kimber. I do prefer to buy American made stuff though. One thing that worries me is some reports of poor quality control with the Kimber rifles lately.
What do yall think? Anyone here made a similar decision?