Just a comment on the 710. I have always shot 700 rems. they are my favorite bolt action rifles (a personal pref.). I recently purchased a 710 as a "truck gun". It gets left in the truck all the time, and while it is not a 700, I have taken 4 hogs, 2 coyotes, and a bobcat with it. It puts out 3" groups at 150 yds, but is still capable of taking out the trash and predators. The bobcat was taken at 120 yds, the coyotes at 160 and 75, and the hogs between 50 and 100 yds. Its not a great gun, and it has no place on the, but if you just want a cheap, not junk, hunting rifle for medium game, you cant beat it for the money. I gave 260 for it on sale.

In answer to your post, you would be better off saving your money, not upgrading the 710, and buying any decent savage, remington, or any other not-so-cheap rifle. Any money spent on upgrading a 710 is thrown away. It is a purpose designed cheap rifle.

Glad you like it though.