Ripp, most of my work was optional. I had CZ put a mercury recoil reducer in, barrel band and Pachmayer Decelerator pad as well as do an action job. I then had Ed and Wayne at American Hunting Rifles (AHR) give it their CZ upgrade which included straighten and fill the bolt, replace the safety with a 3 position Model 70 type safety and replace the trigger with a single stage match trigger. AHR did a great job and all of their work was top notch, but in all honesty the stock CZ safety was fine as was the trigger, and the bolt never hit my hand on recoil, so it was really preference/not need on my part. AHR also glassbedded the action and added another recoil lug as well as replaced the rear sight with an NECG masterpiece sight which were all very worthwhile things.

So if I was on a tight budget I would buy a stock CZ (look over a few and get one with a smooth action and nice wood) then have AHR or another good gunsmith glassbed the action. If it was anything bigger than a 375 I'd have them put another recoil lug in as well. You could probably walk out with a very nice and reliable gun for close to $1000 including gunsmith bills.

Hope this helps,
Chuck