They aren't bad guns. The "bad" rap they get is based on jamming I would bet. My father in law has a 7400 in .308 and its nice. Shoots really well, though he has had some issues with it jamming a few years back. Had to get his clip worked on one time, since then its been fine. I had one in .243 many years ago, sold it just because I never used it and like bolt actions better. Used the money towards buying a .22-250
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I still have the 1pc scope base (for std dovetail mounts) if you need one cheap. pm me
Edit to say:
Another thing that may be attributed to them being called "bad" is that most automatic rifles aren't known for grouping quite as well as a bolt actions do - but certainly sufficient enough for hunting. Mine would group about 1.5-2" at 100yds, my father in laws is a little bit better with factory hornady ammo.