They are good rifles Ripp. The only time I have seen problems with them is when someone modified them without having a clue about why they started and what they wanted to accomplish. Just like Remington's, the only ones where the extractor falls out are the ones that were refinished.
Glass bedding, a cross bolt or two, good sights, and a good recoil pad. That is all you need. If he wants nice wood, go for it. Tell your buddy to keep it simple,and he will be happy.