I only have limited experience with the Browning 1885--actually liked it quite a bit..what I did want to comment on however is what I feel is your "excellent" choice in caliber to built on...I have built 2 custom bolt actions in .257 Weatherby...have used it on deer, antelope, bear, elk, coyotes and an occasional prairie-dog...with the right bullet to withstand that velocity...it is one heck of a caliber..IMHO....

Ripp