to be honest I have seen countless rem SPS 700, with combo packages from stores like cabela's/Bass Pro, DIcks, and so on, for cheaper prices than I have seen on the 770's
and IMO< there better rifles too!
a sa fact I picked up a SPS700 in 234 came with a hard case, a cabela's brand 4x12x40 mm scope, scope cap covers for just over 300 bucks BRAND NEW on sale!
and it shot extremely well with the first box of ammo I ran thru it
but again, with SO many budget rifles out there any more
I believe in handling as many as one can and see what FITS YOU the best, just cause something MIGHT BE< built better or different parts on it, doesn't mean its better for YOU!
many folks over look fit when buying a marketed item, and feeling they NEED it, or want it, based on reviews and , sadly, they don;'t fit the person all that well once they get it!
another thing is when your looking to add accessories, some rifles have more options in that end, from scope mounts to???(and I was NEVER a fan of the Ruger design scope mounts some of the Ruger rifles have?had) )
but this is why there are so many, to each there own on what they lie /dislike!