I've owned both brands and the Sako gets my vote for the following reasons:

- more reliable extractor (that's been my experience anyway)
-excellent factorytrigger
- fixed ejector
- one piece bolt body (the 700 has a brazed on nose and handle)
- stock design (Sakos just fit me better)
- shorter bolt lift
- better fit and finish

The 700 hasa few strongpoints too, but overall I think more thought and effort goes into the design andmanufacture of the Sakos.