Agree on 700. I bought base model ADL Varmint rig (combo with scope) in .308 at Dick’s Sporting Goods. Package price about $450. First trip out with factory ammo printed a 2 inch group at 100 yards on first 5 shots. (Way high and left, but that is scope) Within 3 groups, I had it printing 1.5 inches in center of target. I think that at least 3/4” of the grouping is my own skill level (lack), and this thing is really shooting exactly where I point it.
Now I need to find a longer range, and wait for weather to cool down a bit. It also needs a better scope than the packaged scope. That only takes money...
The varmint setup is a fair amount heavier, but it keeps the groups tight due to the longer, heavy barrel.
I think the 700, even without the fancy polishing that you get on the higher priced levels, is a very nice setup.
i love the accuacy of my 700 (.223) but have had problems breaking the extractor.