Ok I'm convinced that the gift of ammunition dies and bullets is a sign that means that I need a 25-06. What clearer sign than my wife saying do you want that rifle as a Christmas present.
Whittaker's has a Howa for under $350 as does gunbroker and a TC venture for the same price. I've shot both and would lean towards the Howa unfortunately both are 22" barrels but either makes a nice walking Varmint rifle or deer gun.
I like them better than any other budget rifles from Savage and don't know anything about a Mossberg Patriots.
