Greetings Nailcreek.
You mentioned bringing together wood and steel, I would be curious to see your list of must haves on this rifle.
-Sights
-Trigger(s)
-Safety
-scope mounts
Aside from the stock being probably the most critical (with ergonomics and aesthetics), the other stuff really drives the difference between a custom gun and parts being assembled.

For the record, although I don't own one, the 7mm RSI is a rifle I would never get tired of hunting with. Great rig.

Good luck with the project

Tom