Hello

Just purchased this rifle from a local gun dealer here in Missouri over the weekend, and mounted a Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40 (Dead-Hold BDC) on it. Had wanted a .308 and a heavy barrel, and it looks to be in mint condition. With the scope it all came out to around $700 (scope cost $250). The trigger feels light and crisp, and everything seems to be snug and not loose.

Was wondering if some of you fine folks could assist me with a few questions:

1. There are a lot of WTS posts all over the web for this model, and little else. Are there some issues with it? Was this a respectable choice?
2. Was thinking of getting a Harris bench rest tripod, but have seen some people suggest using bags instead. The reasons seemed murky to me. Thoughts?

Thank you