Re: Best ground pad
I got this one from Cabelas and like it. Not sure if that fits your budget, it's good one.
http://www.cabelas.com/catalog/search_catalog_command.cmd?fromProductSearch=true&item1=IK-231046
Re: Budget scope for 700 SPS
I just got the Konus M30 8.5-32 x 52. It has good glass and is sharp up to 28x - indexed at 12x.
It has illuminated mil dot reticle and .1 mil adjustments and sunshade. Price-wise -$350
This might fit your program.