Re: Model 7 vs Model 700
I recently purchased a new old stock 673 Guide Rifle in .308. It is a M7 with M600-style features from the 1960's, but updated. I found the selection of mounts very thin compared to the 700. Most available were the turn-in style. I went with Weaver bases and Burris Zee rings. The rear bridge on the M7 action is very narrow, compared to the 700. The two screws on the rear base almost touch each other.
Point...the mounting options alone would rule out the M7 for any kind of "build", other than a hunter. A noob is just buying a headache if he chooses that as his base rifle. My .02.
AG