RE: Custom building a short action cartridge into a long action receiver?
Feeding is typically not a problem with varmint rifles unless you really think you need a quick follow up shot for a charging prairie dog. I use a magazine blocking plate that makes my 700's into single shots. That's the nice thing about a push feed Rem. action.
The other thing to consider is that you will have this rifle for a long time and it is going to be custom built to be just what you want, so why compromise on such a basic item as the action. Keep looking for just what you want. Just a thought.