I'd rather a Howa than a Rem, but both worked over, the only big diff then to ME would be:

1) a 2 piece bolt handle assembly on Rem - (and I had one break!)
2) Much beefier extractor IMO in the Howa
3) Intregral Recoil lug via Howa IIRC.

So, if you can mentally wrap around a Rem vs a Howa, nothing wrong w/a blue printed 700 w/good bbl, trigger, and stock surrounding it. They usually print well, and bolt breakage is not common, but ALWAYS a possibility. Trust me, you'd NEVER want that happening in the field, esp. in the outback and w/o a backup rifle nearby IMO. It effectively renders your hunt OVER Pronto!

That said, I'd venture that a 270 or '06 Howa, w/Micky stock would do many a hunter a fine job, and agree w/post above on that note.

That said, I am intriqued by the Cooper's, yes the wood/blue models, in particular the 54 being a short action buff. Bolt lift and angle is noted, but not perhaps unlike an A-bolt or late model Sako. If they'd do a ss/syn version, I'd look to it perhaps first for all around use, but want a QUALITY handle. B&C's are functional, albeit HEAVY IMO.

Timney is a good trigger, and Pac-Nor, well I hold them in high regard inc. over the Wilson, yet the latter is said to be held to TIGHT spec request, now a joint ownership IIRC between Wilson and Cooper.

It's all about choices. Most shoot better than many hunters can hold, yet balance and overall quality, dependability/durability is of importance and perceptions may vary among these variables, depending on who you ask.

Pride of ownership is a consideration. I'd MUCH rather own a 1500 dollar rifle, than any 'TURN KEY' product costing 3-4x but that's just me. As to Howa being the action/design of the Nosler, it's still a NOSLER product and I believe that should count for something.

Nice to have choices, the market for semi-customs and/or higher grade rifles in this price range seems to be growing. Competition often brings more value/quality and price competition.

None of which are bad for the end users.