I've often thought of putting together a scout rifle, I always thought most full stocked hunting rifles like the Ruger RSI would be a good choice. Then I realize I hate short barreled rifles if I'm not using a suppressor. Although with newer electronic hearing protection, it's much easier to go hunting afield with ear-pro unsuppressed.
If I was going to "scout" any of my rifles, I have a sporterized Krag that would fit the bill. However, it wouldn't be Cooper's ideal scout rifle either, I wouldn't have the range, I couldn't use stripper clips, and not easily found ammunition. However, the lunchbox magazine makes for fast reloads. There are
speed loaders out there for Krags, so maybe the Colonel would forgive my choice of cartridge and rifle.
I did remove the buckhorn rear sight and mounted a
Rice Peep sight to the bolt shroud. Now all it would take is a new rib soldered to the barrel to mount a scout scope in QR rings and I'd be set. That and add a shooting sling. The .30-40 just doesn't have the report of the .308 in a short barrel, making it much more pleasant to shoot IMO.