The Remington pumps will shoot very well. Very close to what most out of the box bolt will do. I have had four of them. They will all shoot better than 1 1/2 inch. The Pump 35 whelen will be worth p;eny as they are soyught after for back-up guns for bear hunters and such. You can, go wrong with either. I may be wrong but I think Savage offers barrels for the 35 whelen through Midway. Its possable to do it your self but a smith would not charge to much to change the barrel and head space it. Good Luck.