I’ve got both and prefer the Howa over the Ruger. I don’t mind using AR mags in a bolt action but the Ruger just doesn’t feed as reliably as the Howa. Period. Either gun is just as accurate as the other but, the Howa gets the nod because of its superior feeding.
Having said that, the Howa’s original mag latch is a lousy design and needs to upgraded IMO. Think it was another $150 for new bottom metal and latch. And, the Howa uses plastic mags also, which just don’t look and feel that robust. So far I haven’t had any problems with them but I just don’t get the feeelign they are going to last. So,that’s another another weak point of the Howa.
Given what I know now, I would strongly consider the CZ. All said and done, it’s cheaper than the Howa with upgrades, and comes with metal mags. I?ve got a CZ455 Varmint with 22LR and 17 HMR barrels and if the Grendel is half the gun that is, I’d be pleased.
Having said that, the Howa’s original mag latch is a lousy design and needs to upgraded IMO. Think it was another $150 for new bottom metal and latch. And, the Howa uses plastic mags also, which just don’t look and feel that robust. So far I haven’t had any problems with them but I just don’t get the feeelign they are going to last. So,that’s another another weak point of the Howa.
Given what I know now, I would strongly consider the CZ. All said and done, it’s cheaper than the Howa with upgrades, and comes with metal mags. I?ve got a CZ455 Varmint with 22LR and 17 HMR barrels and if the Grendel is half the gun that is, I’d be pleased.