RE: Your thoughts please
I agree with Red Allison the 257 Wby is a very effective caliber and the Mark V Deluxe will turn some heads in the range.
I personally recomend a Kimber in 300 WSM. They have a really nice fit and finish and the performance of the 300 WSM is hard to beat.
For the amount of money you are willing to spend I say don't go cheap on the scopes. Leupold Vari x III will be your minimum to buy. Take a look at Zeiss and Swarovski.