The Remington 740 was the predecessor to the Remington 742, which in turn was the predecessor to today's 7400, Remington's semi automatic hunting rifle.
In my area you could probably pick up a 740 or 742 for $300-$500 depending on condition and what sort of scope (if any) was attached. I have had a 742 since 1981. In terms of accuracy I am not impressed; the first shot will shoot to zero, the next few wander in a 2"-3" circle. If I let the barrel get completely cold between shots (not just warm, but COLD) then it will put four shots in a 1" circle, but one of the main advantages of the semi auto is a quick second shot, so...
I must say that the recoil is dampened noticeably compared to my Remington 700. Both my 742 and 700 are in .30-06.
I have never had any jams with my 742, but I really don't shoot it very much. I have read posts on this forums from others who have had these rifles jam rather frequently. The main justification for me continuing to own it is that it is comforting to have a quick second shot if you are chasing wounded hogs in thick brush, where a fast second shot may be more important than MOA accuracy. However, on those occaisions when I have poked about in the shrubbery with my 742, I have had to take care to keep brush from collecting in the ejection port, potentially causing a jam.
If you don't have one of these and are considering getting one, I would recommend thinking twice. If your hunting is at 100 yards or less you may be ok with it, but if you take longer shots I'd recommend a bolt gun instead. I like to reload, and senmiautos are much harder on their brass than bolt guns are, to say nothing of the differences in accuracy potential. I keep mine around for a variety of reasons, but it is almost never the first gun I reach for when going hunting.
Just my 2 cents worth.
740
