Although I haven't shot the Rem 798 yet, this is my first impression of my $600.00 big game rifle.
Metal finish- Highly polished and nicely blued. Seems to be a little rougher on the reciever directly behind the follower. I believe that this is where some metal might have been removed to allow for the longer .375 bullet length.
Wood - Very nice straight grain walnut. Pretty but plain. I would like to remove the angled end of the forend and add an ebony tip.
Checkering - nicely done for a work gun.
Weight - probably adequate for a rifle of this caliber.
Wood to metal fit - It seems as if some work might be required. I can't run a sheet of paper between stock and barrel the complete length of the inletting.
Fit - Rifle seems to fit me well, but I am of average arm length.
Recoil pad - Standard Remington pad..a bit hard for my liking. Maybe a Pachmayr decelerator will replace it.
Sights - The open sights are adequate, but a three leaf express sight may be in this guns future.
This rifle may be a work in progress, but I must say it is a good foundation.
I am very happy so far, but I still have to touch off a few rounds.