Regarding the scope, what are we using the .308 cartridge for in a "general purpose rifle"? On game it's probably not gonna be used much past 300 yards; on humans not much past 400. At these ranges the IER scope is as accurate as necessary and faster than the alternatives.
Now, if you wish to build or buy a 15 lb precision rifle, you can reach out further with the round and a higher power scope is certainly in order. But then again, you're not going to take a liesurely 20 mile hunting stroll with a 15 lb rifle. In any case, we beg the question, "Which is the specialty rifle?"
As concerns the bipod:
Cooper is a hunter. He hunts a great deal on the African plains and insists that his rifle never be out of reach. The bipod makes a *very* handy method for keeping it close and accessible when not hunting. (Everyone has to eat and sleep sooner or later.) I think Cooper would be the first to question the bipod's utility as a *practical* shooting rest, unless he had the luxury of a great deal of time. Last year in Africa, his party evidently found such time on about 1/3 of their shots.
In any case, the bipod costs nothing in weight or bulk, so why not? Personally, I wish more manufacturers would hop on the bandwagon. If one particularly experienced individual who graces this forum would get interested in integral bipods, I'm certain they'd become quicker, quieter and sturdier. What say you, Gale?
As concerns the drawbacks of the Scout, I'll defer my criticisms. Suffice it to say, I owned one; I sold it; I'm buying another.
Alternatives:
Cooper built many of the originals on the BRNO ZKK action. The flattop receiver lends itself to lots of magic: how about a rear steel sight that incorporates the stripper clip guide? (I can see Ed's ears perk up on that one)....Ashley Emerson will be trying this on my ZKK.
Winchester Model 70's are certainly available as are Remington 700's for those of that religion. The LURCR rifle built for me by Mad dog allows for quick change of scopes and will hit way out beyond my abilities.
But what about the Blaser R93....think about it! Custom machine a scope mount for the Leupold forward mount and you are done!
Rich