Weepy wrote:You definitely can't argue with the Howa price (or the performance you get for it).
Maybe they're just the only brand not gouging us here in Aus?
Hell, I bought my stainless sporter Howa a couple of years back on special for $549 + $30 post and $20 at this end. It is acceptably accurate(MOA) with everything I put through it but did take a little bit of tweaking to get the best out of it(crows at 200m). Nice trigger, every man and his dog hase used it and the horrible green rubber stock is still in good nick.
Is the Tikka varmint I will (possibly subject to testing a Savage) replace it with $700 worth of better? Who knows but I have had a Tikka in .243 for quite a while and have never owned such a no fuss rifle before. I will miss being able to top load.
Horses for courses, usually a Howa will shoot better than most people and at least the trigger is adjustable for weight and sear engagement. If I had to have something cheaper than a Tikka it would still be a howa, the only reason I am changing is I was pestered to sell it and I use the .17 more and am swinging more to the .223 for casual targets rather than hunting, hence the need for a heavy barrel(should never have sold the .223 Omark).