Guru I am going to give you the advice I would give myself, I am no expert but I'm gonna give it to you straight:
When I found the 770 about two years ago and was new to buying guns and starting my collection etc, I asked about it and everyone on every gun website all said NO. Various forms of, it's cheap junk, its the junky stuff of 700's that doesn't make the cut [But not in a Good way, like a value type, a BAD WAY like its junk so we'll try to sell it instead of throwing it out] and I'm glad I didn't get it.
What *I WOULD* do in your situation, I almost did at one time and I still might do , is buy the Dick's Sporting Goods combo package, Remington 700 SPS Varmint .308 - it's .308 Win your preferred caliber ( and mine too and it also has other calibers avail) , it comes with some sort of scope (I think a 'Remington' branded 3-9x40mm) and serviceable scope rings/mount, its a 26" barrel ready for longer range sniping, and its a damn good rifle for $499.99 - I mean you just can't beat all the stuff for $500 bucks total.
Now is it THE BEST 700 , no its not. Nor is it even one of the better ones as it's a cheaper synthetic stock, a long barrel some people don't like, not a fancy jeweled bolt or bedded action etc. -- BUT STILL- IT'S A Remington 70 .308 with a mounted scope that you are ready to go snipe deer etc. with. You can zero the mofo for accuracy and go on a hunting trip or range trip with your friends family etc. and be all set for not a lot.
AGAIN- There will be a ton of answers here and I know there are lots of great rifles and if was making a big purchase I would get a better 700 model or probably really a Savage. BUT Instead of getting that 770 that you'll regret please go consider my post and look for those combos at Dick's.