Yep, I can see the costs build up quickly in starting with an action as unusual as the LH Mini-Mauser. As far as I can tell, the Savage .223 is a normal .308-length action blocked for the shorter round. That doesn't bother me, but the Tikka, a .30-'06-length action blocked down to .223, does seem pretty silly.
I have a spare NEF Handi-Rifle frame on the shelf, and am looking for a 1-in-9" twist barrel in .223 to fit to it. If it proves accurate, I will probably be satisfied and leave the Savage for someone else. I'm looking to build a lightweight "walking around varminter" at minimum cost, and .223 brass is free by the shovelful at my club's range, making it the obvious choice for such a rifle.