Ive never used a compass, so cant say one way or the other in that regard.
I have owned a Howa 6.5CM, and its a nicer rifle than any of the "low end" guns ive used.
Mine was MOA capable, but in this day and age thats the norm rather than the exception.
The Ruger American is currently my favorite budget gun, and it is lighter, and in general they are probably more accurate than the Howas.
The Howa Actions are smoother, and the howas stocks are better imo. I like the Howa HACT trigger better than the Ruger Marksman trigger. The Howa also has a dbm kit available that while plastic, is pretty good. Im using one on my 700.
Im also interested in the Winchester XPR, everything ive read about them has so far been positive. It was a toss up between the XPR, and the RAM, when i ordered my new 7mm a couple weeks ago. I chose the Ruger just because ive owned and worked with them, i knew they were solid, and what i need to do to fix the little issues that bugged me.
If if i can find the cash for a XPR compact in 7-08 ill likely be buying one of those as well.