Had the option for a Ruger Predator or a Howa Mini with the sporter barrel. I would have preferred an 18" midweight threaded barrel on the Howa action. Trigger is better on the Howa too. I had a Ranch 5.56, and while handi, I was also not a fan of the magazine protruding. The 7.62x39 Ruger Ranch I had with 5 round mini'30 mags was nicer in that regard. In fact, I hadn't even run rounds through the factory Howa mag before I ordered a Jeffrson Outdoor hinged bottom metal conversion. I am very happy with it. I like the stock on the Ruger better (thinner and slightly more rigid).
I had a CZ527 in 22 Hornet, and one in 223. I loved the set trigger, hated the mags. They were good rifles, but weren't perfect enough to keep when the chips were down years ago.
Wish list to do it again: 18" threaded 5/8x24 barrel, BDL floorplate from the factory or a reliable flush fit DBM, more rigid stock (wood and a matte stainless action and barrel would be perfect).
I had a CZ527 in 22 Hornet, and one in 223. I loved the set trigger, hated the mags. They were good rifles, but weren't perfect enough to keep when the chips were down years ago.
Wish list to do it again: 18" threaded 5/8x24 barrel, BDL floorplate from the factory or a reliable flush fit DBM, more rigid stock (wood and a matte stainless action and barrel would be perfect).