Buying a "price point" rifle and finding it "stiff/rough" shouldn't be surprising.
Oil/grease the working parts and cycle the action for a while. Be sure to lube the cocking ramp or whatever these have to cock the striker as this is an area that magnifies the rough feel.
Interesting, I have a 243 Compass and would say the action is anything but rough. I would have a guy who knows Compass' take a look at it to make sure it is on par.
I would describe the action on my TC Venture as rough. I expect it will break in over time but have not really done enough with it to try to break it in. It is good enough for its intended purpose.