RE: Re-barrel my Browning?
Buy a longer scabbard.
7mmRemMags and 26" are kinda are made for each other.
If you go to a barrel band front sling mount the rifle will ride lower on your shoulder if you are going thru the trees with it slung. Otherwise, if you are holding it in your hands, then I have a hard time believing that 2" is going to save the day, my long magnum action CZ's have 25.5" barrels and sure don't pose a problem to me, especially whenI carry it in my hands.
Still want shorter bolt action for elk?
Get a 30-06 or 338-06 in a 24" barrel.
Now you'll have two rifles and they will each be like they aredesigned to be!
By the time you screw around with a new barrel and a new stock you'll have a bunch into it.
Have your dad spring for it since he seems to be the one wanting to use it.