Bravo, abnhunter....
I must completely agree. I've had 4 Remingtons, over the last 12 years.... (1-Model 7 and 3-700's)... and they ALL have been good rifles. The two that I have now are both ADL synthetics - the cheapest 700's that Remington sells. These two rifles are the best of the ones I've owned (in terms of accuracy and functional reliability, which is all I really care about). That does NOT mean that Remingtons are the best, or, in fact better than any other brand. It simply means that I have had good service from them - so, I am satisfied.
As you say, the 710 was designed as a "budget" rifle.... why expect it to be more than that? With time and development, whatever "bugs" may exist in the 710 will likely be fixed - just as with ANY other product involving new technology, or design.
I am always dismayed by people who, often based on limited experience (or mere heresay..."I heard it from a friend of my cousin Leo"... ) , will categorically declare that "such and such" brand or model is "junk". There are lots of good rifles on the market - (many different brands/models) ! Why do some find it necessary to berate those that don't happen to be their particular "pet" brand/model ? Though EVERYONE has an absolute right to their opinion, no matter how unpopular, I believe that projecting unqualified assertions does us all a dis-service.... and merely creates bad
feelings, which are counter-productive. As you said, "we all have our likes and dislikes". We certainly should respect each other's opinions... but, if certain assertions are intended to be MORE than mere opinions... then they should be backed by solid experience and personal knowledge of the particular subject of discussion.
Best Regards to all.