Since we're strolling down memory lane...
My first new rifle was a 700 BDL .243 in 1972. The LGS sold it to me at his cost, as a favor, for around $130 as I recall. I transferred the 3-9 Bushnell onto it off of my Mauser, soon to be replaced by a Bausch&Lomb, which is another story. Took my entire tax refund check. (Oh to be a poor college student again!) It too was one of the most accurate factory rifles I ever owned.
As I recall, I was making around $1.50/hr. part time back then. After beer, gas, and cigarettes there was always money for powder and bullets. Thank god the GF liked beer, gas, and cigarettes too, and paid for her own.
