I disagree even with the barrels. They are right down the road, in the army we tested some of their gear. I also owned one. The bolt carrier looked like it was filed to shape. The hammer and trigger engagement surfaces are parkerized --forget about polishing it. They are super close, just a few exits past Ft. Lewis, but I don't go there. Ever.Coon, I'm glad that your Oly hasn't given you trouble. But you can't deny that there are dozens, if not more, of absolute horror stories regarding Olympic. Receivers being out of spec are the most common complaints. Bolts as well. In fact, the only thing Oly did right, and they did it very right, is their barrel. You might not be going to war with it, but try replacing some of the parts.
S&W has gotten a very good reputation, but I don't know if they are within the OP's price range.
Stag I think is Rainier's budget line. I haven't used 'em, but I kind of trust Rainier not to sell junk at the moment. White Oak is another.Stag Arms are $760 new at my LGS. A1,A2,A3. Hard to beat that
I think you answered your own question. You're not going to get a new rifle for under $600, which leaves pretty much leaves you the used market or an su16a/b in the high $400s, which really isn't a bad gun for casual plinking/backpacking. Either spring for new, save some up or go used AR/new keltec. Not many other choices.http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=411537958
Does anyone know anything about this? It has good reviews. It is a bit outta my price range... but if I saved up enough money...
Stag Arms are $760 new at my LGS. A1,A2,A3. Hard to beat that
Most of the (alleged) threads have been on ARFcom.