Welcome Bonehead!
You don't say how much experience you have with SML and it is VERY different from shooting smokers, other then loading down the muzzle.
I think the real way it works is you build the gun and then see what ammo/bullet/powder combo it likes. You could build a great shooting gun but it does not like the bullets you have chosen.
Safety is the most important thing, then accuracy.
I would think the Encore conversion would be a great woods gun. I have one and it shoots lights out with the 45X40 blue sabots and 40 cal X 200 grain SST or XTP bullets. It is light, handy, accurate and very easy recoiling with moderate loads. It is dependable and I would trust it out to 200+ yards with a good rest.
For your builds are you a "do it yourself" guy or will they be sent off to one of the good smiths to do the machine and put together work? Dropping a "plug and play" barrel on a Savage is relatively easy if you are experienced with Savages and not a serious problem with the barrel properly readied.
For a sub moa gun the wood/plastic and fit, bedding, pillars and etc are important to performance too.
Your 1st post just doesn't give enough information about where you are on the SML learning/shooting curve to give much help as confusion could result. And that could compromise safety.
Remember, Safety 1st, then accuracy. 10
PS: I'm a VA boy too. I live out here on the Northern Neck between Warsaw and Kilmarnock. If you would like to have a conversation or whatever just shoot me a PM.
