You've got some good options. Unused model 12 actions are nearly constantly available in the "for sale" boards of this site. If you are willing to wait, Cabelas frequently has sales on the model 12FV rifles and Savage has had rebate programs in the past at the same time. Combine the two and a 12FV can be had for under $250 OTD tax included, not including possible additional discounts by buying gift cards at 12% off. You can often sell the new, un-used barrel for a good price on the same boards and recoup half your original layout. That's a very inexpensive start and you're getting new parts!

I put together one such gun last year. CBI barrel, precision nut and recoil lug. A new Stockysstocks Bobby Hart long range stock, not cheap but not expensive glass. I'm into it for under $1500 and it shoots dots.

Have a ball, and let us know how it turns out!