Equipment for long-range target shooting

Question
-------------------------
Followup To
Question -
What are your recommendations for rifle make and caliber and optics for long-range (typically 300-600 meters) target shooting?

I've been using a Parker-Hale and Winchester 308 with iron sights. Results are not terrific, but good enough to encourage me to get better hardware.

Budget is an issue. Would like to keep expenses in the $500-$1000 range.

Thanks for your time and attention.
Answer -
One additional question,
are you using this in sanctioned matches??



Answer: sometimes yes , mostly no. Does this make a difference, and, if so, what is it?

Thanks again

Answer
It can as the rifle needs to meet the criteria of the match.
Plus the needs of bench rest shooter is far different from
a free rifle shooter which is far different from a hunting rifle.


The budget restriction makes it difficult to get a rifle that dramtically better.

The next question is what problem are trying to address
with a better rifle?

Have you considered bringing your rifle to gunsmith
and have it accurized? A trigger job can aid greatly.
Glass bedding can help.
Are you using a shooting coat and glove?