My .22 experience has been with a 1980's Marlin 39A and a synthetic stocked Ruger 10/22. The Marlin weighs a ton but as many have said the Ruger has some extensive aftermarket support.
Avoid the Rem 597. I bought one and the extractor plunger flew off on the third round fired through the rifle. The scope dovetails and front site were also machined off center so the rifle could not be sighted in. I am in the process of returning the rifle to Remington and demanding a refund.