I'm picking up a bolt action .223 as a companion to my AR. My AR currently wears a 4-16x Primary Arms scope that will be moved to whichever bolt gun I buy and be replaced by a 1-6x scope. I mostly shoot "off the bench" (actually a picnic table ) out at my in-laws property but will eventually use it for coyote, possibly hogs but I have a .308 that I'd probably use for that. Most hunting I might do would be stationary so weight isn't a huge issue. After a bunch of research and looking around, I've gotten myself narrowed down to these two (though I'd consider other options around $400 if someone found something I haven't considered). I want to stay right about or below $400, I have more available but want to use the remainder for a bore guide, cheek riser if necessary, etc...
Weatherby Vanguard Heavy Barrel
Ruger American Predator
Mag-wise, it's kind of a wash because I wouldn't need to buy mags for the Weatherby and I already own plenty of AR mags that I could use with the RA Predator. Barrel length doesn't make a huge difference to me, just want something 20" or longer so both work for that. I'm assuming the Vanguard is a 2 series based on the MOA gurantee and 2 stage trigger though it doesn't state it is. Twist rate is a wash too, I probably won't use anything over 69 gr so both should be able to handle what I'd use.
Weatherby Vanguard Heavy Barrel
Ruger American Predator
Mag-wise, it's kind of a wash because I wouldn't need to buy mags for the Weatherby and I already own plenty of AR mags that I could use with the RA Predator. Barrel length doesn't make a huge difference to me, just want something 20" or longer so both work for that. I'm assuming the Vanguard is a 2 series based on the MOA gurantee and 2 stage trigger though it doesn't state it is. Twist rate is a wash too, I probably won't use anything over 69 gr so both should be able to handle what I'd use.