Thanks for all the input. Couple of things that I would like to respond to. I do not like the hinged floor plate on most 700's. The release button is located inside of the trigger guard, which to me is unsafe. I have always been taught, and trained,never to put my finger inside of the trigger guard unless I intend to fire the weapon. With the newer model 700's, the release is located too close the the trigger for my comfort. I have never misfired a weapon, but accidents to happen. As for leaving the mag behind when I go afield, it has never happened with my currect rifle. I have an old stevens 30-30 with a detach mag. During season the mag is always in the rifle. I guess it comes down to preference though. Thanks for all the input. -Ricci