A vote for the 700. The Rem 700 action has withstood the test of time as strong and reliable. Lots of "high end" rifles being built on the 700.
Not aware of any good gunsmiths building on the Tikka.
I have a Tikka built by Crescent Customs and Jim Kobe. I have also seen Tikkas built by Long rifles Inc, Short Action Customs, Dennis Adams, and more.
