Too many options, need help on a beginner Bench rifle

[fly boy]

I was dead set on a Remington 700p (PSS, or Police) in .308 caliber. I finally tracked down someone that was most helpful yet completely not helpful. He works for RSR Group and does all the military sales, along with testing and competition shooting and has talked me out of what I wanted. So I come here for more opinions to point me in a direction.

Gun application: Mainly play at the range 500yrds and under, and if I feel froggy take it into the woods. I know I will have this gun for years, and I'm sure it will be used/abused.
My Skill: I better than someone just starting out, but I would say I don't have any skill.

My original plan was Rem 700p - has a 20" fluted barrel, and a much better stock than the standard SPS.
Now I was told to think about these options
Rem 700 5r **BOUGHT THIS**
Steyr pro-hunter
FN Spr a1
Springfield M1A
CZ

Anyone want to concur saying if I'm already spending $900 on the Rem 700p, should I consider something else? My original budget was $1200, I was hoping that would include a Zeiss or Bushnell Elite scope.

**EDIT**

Bought a SWFA 16x42 but it is on back order, and after calling today, it is pushed until July!!!! Can I effectively drop down to a 10x or 12x and be able to hit MOA at 500 yards? Or will I need higher magnification?

http://swfa.com/SWFA-SS-10x42-Tactic...pe-P53712.aspx
http://swfa.com/SWFA-SS-12x42-Tactic...pe-P53714.aspx