I would have to agree with FLEA. I know my 700 would never let me down, that is why I would take an M40 or an M24 into battle with me. I'm not sure on the exact differences, but to my understanding they are very similar. FLEA also mentioned the AI chasis (sp?), a good mix of bolt action and capacity.
Max- You are correct that Drew pointed out that -
he meant a rifle that you would shoot while in the heat of combat, not in a deep penetration recon mission.
However, his thread is also titled
What Sniper rifle would you take into Battle.
I think FLEA's point, is that if he was going into battle with a
sniper rifle, he would prefer something that will fire
every time. Thus his sworn allegiance to bolt action rifles.
Don't get me wrong, the M14 kicks ass, and I would love to go into battle with an M14/21/25 or whatever, but when it comes to going into battle as a strictly a sniper, I want something that will fire all the time. My life depends on it.