Re: 40-X with stripper clip cut out?? Good or bad?
Strength wise? Not enough difference to matter. In the end, a 40X/700 is very strong. If you are looking at a 40X w/slot, it would be a repeater.
What do you plan to use it for? Is it in 308? Rebarreled or original?
My only 40X is a CMP HB model and there is no doubt it is better finished than any 700 I have seen in 30 years, but it was made in 68ish. The fact that a 40X may or may not be better finished does not answer your question though.
Ramblings over....