So I got a wheelman for basically the same purposes as you. I ended up scoring a 4" pre lock S&W 686. Accurate with everything and fun to shoot. I'd honestly take a look at a pre lock S&W
I have a URX4 handguard that unfortunately didn't fit my project. But I honestly like the URX6 better.
I have a Geissele super duty upper with a keyed handguard to upper and keyed gas block. I kinda dig where this is going.
Just look at the Bighorn TL3 and origin. Great actions. I had a rifle built on a surgeon action. I loved it. If I did that again it'd be a Bighorn TL3.
Ninja stars are a solid option and should always be carried on first line gear.
That being said. An esee knives Esee 3 or 4 is a solid option as a general purpose knife. Quality build and materials and you won't cry if you bang it up. If you want something spiffier Halloran knives does good work.
I think that when they came out the Surgeons were top of the line. But they haven't really updated anything in the ten or so years since I had one.
I think companies like Bighorn and ARC have really brought the bolt action into the modern day.
Thats a bit high. Sounds like he's trying to cash in on the Covid/Biden pandemic. Without seeing pics of condition or anything, if that guy would've walked into my shop I would've sent him elsewhere.