Thinking of low cost .243---Ruger American or Wetherby Vanguard

[Kachok]

I have a Vanguard (not Series 2) .223 that I really like. Wish it had a 3 position safety like some others but thats ok. It is a very accurate rifle.

@Kachok: I am 5'5" and I found a youth Vanguard on the rack at Cabela's. Fits me perfect, you might give that a try before you buy another brand of rifle.

I have never even seen a Youth Vanguard in person, much less seen them at the stores, there are alot of rifles you cannot find in south Alabama, nobody around here carries Sako, Kimber, CZ, Cooper, or Winchester 70 Sporters, or not last that I checked anyway. Had to get a girlfriend to order my T3 6.5x55 because nobody ever heard of such around these parts.

 

[bantam9]

Picked neither...

Well--saw a Browning a-bolt composite in 243.
A little more than i thought i wanted to spend, but had the tang safety, was light weight, nice recoil pad. It was definitely a more robust stock than the Ruger, and had a 22 in barrel, plus 60 degree bolt.
Tried talking myself into the Ruger, but I just thought for a little extra $$$, the Browning was more gun.
Thanks to everyone for all your insight.

 

[snakeman]

Vanguard for sure. I love mine, it's reliable, extremely accurate, and easily modified with aftermarket accessories.

 

[sayak]

I have both a Weatherby Vanguard in .270 and a Ruger American in .308. No real comparison... apples vs oranges... and I like them both just fine!
You will be happier carrying the American all day than the Vanguard because it is lighter. The action on the Vanguard is butter smooth and the barrel feels solid compared to the whippy American barrel. I feel much better beating up the American though. I wouldn't trade either one, but if you want a solidly built rifle go the Vaguard route. If you want a light rifle you can beat up in the field, go with the American.

 

[Captcurt]

I own a Vanguard.
I sighted in my nephew's Ruger American.

It's no contest. The Vanguard is twice the rifle the American is IMO.
The only thing the American has going for it is it's weight. It's a very light weight rifle, whereas the Vanguard is a bit on the heavy side.

This.

 

[Sock Puppet]

You won't regret buying the A-Bolt, they are fine rifles.