Own all of them and agree with prior postings re Ruger American and re putting the balance of your money on the glass. For the money, Ruger American is hard to beat, but the reality is that, unlike when we were growing up, most all manufacturers are putting out budget rifles that shoot minute of deer. Another thing that has changed is the improvements made in ammo....So, if it were me, I would guy the budget type rifle he prefers but would spend the bulk of my money on the glass....good luck.