The 700 would be the only thing I'd look at.
If you want economy, go with the SPS.
T/C Venture comes with a factory 1MOA guarantee. They can be had for under $450. Ruger American would be another in that price range that gets good reviews. The Savage Axis and the Remington 783 are the other models in that space, but are not as well received. Still, you are getting a pretty decent rifle for what you pay. I was going to get the Venture in .243 last year, then found a used stainless 700 with the older, nicer synthetic stock for $600. So that was the obvious choice. You might find a good used M77, savage, or rem 700 if you aren't in a hurry.
The Remington of today is not the same as it used to be. Nothing wrong with a Remy made before Freedom Group purchased them. Short answer here is Ruger American or Savage
Does anyone know what numerical value the word "economy" has? In my experience some folks consider a 2k dollar rifle "economy" some folks consider a Mosin "economy".
Good point. For me, I would probably do as follows:
<$500 T/C Venture
$500-$900 Savage 10 or variant
$900-$1200 Nicer Rem 700
$1200-$3000 PTG 700 Short Action, Krieger or Bartlein barrel, Magpul stock (unless you've got a bigger budget), Timney trigger.
or for a more traditional rifle, get a Cooper
>$3000 GAP or Surgeon
Im sure I could refine this list on further reflection, but off the top of my head this is how I look at it.
Good point. For me, I would probably do as follows:
<$500 T/C Venture
$500-$900 Savage 10 or variant
$900-$1200 Nicer Rem 700
$1200-$3000 PTG 700 Short Action, Krieger or Bartlein barrel, Magpul stock (unless you've got a bigger budget), Timney trigger.
or for a more traditional rifle, get a Cooper
>$3000 GAP or Surgeon
Im sure I could refine this list on further reflection, but off the top of my head this is how I look at it.